Our Vision
A future where 1,000 young people across Oregon reach a 1,000 chess rating — and discover confidence, focus, and belonging along the way.
At Puddletown Chess, we believe chess is more than a game. It is a powerful tool for developing critical thinking, emotional resilience, and self-belief. Our vision is to build a statewide chess community where every child with curiosity and commitment has a real path to growth, regardless of income, gender, geography, or learning differences.
We envision Oregon as a place where chess helps children learn how to think clearly, recover from setbacks, and trust their own decision-making — skills that matter on the board and throughout life.
Our Mission
Our mission is to support 1,000 Oregon youth in reaching a 1,000 chess rating by providing access, coaching, community, and opportunity — especially for those most often left out.
We focus our work on three groups of students who face the greatest barriers to sustained participation in chess:
Underprivileged
Children from low-income families who may lack access to coaching, tournament fees, travel resources, or equipment.
Underrepresented
Girls and non-binary students who are often discouraged from continuing in competitive chess due to stereotypes, isolation, or lack of visible role models.
Underserved
Students in rural communities and children with ADHD, autism, or other learning differences, for whom traditional chess environments may not feel accessible or welcoming.
What We Do
->Create a Clear Path to a 1,000 Rating
We help students move from beginner to competitive player through structured training, guided practice, tournaments, and long-term mentorship — emphasizing consistency, confidence, and enjoyment over pressure.
->Remove Financial Barriers
We provide scholarships and support for lessons, tournaments, travel, and materials so cost does not determine who gets to continue.
->Build Inclusive Learning Environments
Our programs are designed to be welcoming, patient, and flexible — recognizing that children learn, focus, and communicate in different ways.
->Strengthen Community and Belonging
We bring together players, families, volunteers, and coaches into a supportive chess community where kids feel seen, encouraged, and proud of their progress.
->Develop Life Skills Through Chess
Along the way, students learn how to:
Make thoughtful decisions under pressure
Learn from losses without losing confidence
Set goals and track improvement
Respect opponents and themselves