Over the past decade, it’s safe to say that the St. Louis Chess Club and World Chess Hall of Fame have made an impact on the St. Louis region. For starters, the SLCC’s Scholastic Chess Initiative has served more than 70,000 students. Think about that: 70,000 students have learned the game of chess, learned strategy, increased their cognitive skills and gained confidence, thanks to a game that is fun, engaging and shifting their focus on something that can seem highly intimidating.
Not only are we funneling the next generation through scholastic chess, but we are making sure local artists and musicians have the same opportunity through solo and group exhibitions as well as regular performance space. For nonprofit organizations, bringing programming to the community relies heavily on community and philanthropic support. The SLCC and WCHOF are bringing new perspectives and dreams to our city’s most valuable resources, our students and local talent.
On Dec. 1, the SLCC and WCHOF will celebrateStrategy Across the Board. The fourth annual gala will be held virtually, presented by Dr. Jeanne Cairns Sinquefield and Rex Sinquefield, Edward Jones and Ascension Charity Classic. Strategy Across the Board is also supported by Cohen Architectural Woodworking, World Wide Technology, Reinmann Jain Associates, Sandberg Phoenix, Color Art, UMB Bank and Spire, among others.
“Hosting Strategy Across the Board virtually this year gives the global chess community a chance to partake in our annual gala to see what the St. Louis Chess Campus has to offer, which is exciting because chess is a game anyone can play,” said Tony Rich, executive director of the SLCC.
“Having the opportunity to connect virtually with our members, visitors and donors through Strategy Across the Board provides art and cultural lovers with a chance to see how we are advancing the art, culture and history of chess,” said Shannon Bailey, chief curator of the WCHOF.
No matter where you are, join us at 6:30 p.m. CST Dec. 1 to celebrate the missions of two organizations that have rooted themselves into the thread of St. Louis and the global chess community.
The evening will be filled with highlights of programming the St. Louis Chess Campus has to offer, both in person and online. Attendees can join emcee Mike Icaacson at 7 p.m. CST for an exciting hourlong virtual celebration, including a special appearance and keynote by legendary World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov.
To register or learn more aboutStrategy Across the Board, visit 2020satb.givesmart.com or text "2020satb" to 76278.
Lauren Stewart is the development manager for the St. Louis Chess Campus. Stewart has worked for the St. Louis Chess Club for over 12 years in a number of different roles, but currently drives the fundraising efforts for the Scholastic Chess Initiative, CHESS Cops program and exhibition support at the World Chess Hall of Fame.
