Get involved
Two Ways to Change the Game
There's more than one way to make chess education accessible. Because we need partners to host our programs and supporters to keep them free. You'll find your path below.
Partner with us
We make it easy for organizations to offer chess programming. Our tutors bring everything needed—from lesson plans to chess sets—so you can focus on supporting your students.
Schools, community centers, and afterschool programs: if you serve children ages 3-10, we’d love to explore a partnership. Here’s what working with Once Upon a Chessboard looks like:
What you get:
Certified tutors who arrive ready to teach
Story-based curriculum designed for young learners
All chess sets and learning materials
Flexible scheduling that works with your calendar
Ongoing support throughout the partnership
Zero cost to your organization
What we need from you:
- Space for small group classes (classrooms, gyms, or community rooms work great)
- Students excited to learn (we handle the rest)
- A partnership coordinator who can help with scheduling and family communication
Support our work
Donations help us keep programs free and expand into new communities. Your support directly funds classes, tutors, and materials that make learning possible.
Every dollar you give goes straight to what matters: bringing story-based chess education to children who might not otherwise have access.
What your support funds:
Tutor Training & Compensation
Our tutors are the heart of our programs. Your donations ensure they're well-trained and fairly paid.
Curriculum & Materials
From chess sets to stories, we provide everything needed for engaging, high-quality classes.
Program Expansion
As we grow, we can partner with more organizations and reach more children across more communities.
The impact of your gift:
- $50 provides chess sets for one new class
- $185 funds a full month of classes for one group
- $2,200 supports a semester of classes for a class of twenty kids
- $4,400 funds a full year of classes at a partner location
