About
A lifelong chess player who saw a need in Chattanooga — and decided to act.
Ben has been playing chess since childhood and has spent years casually teaching friends, family, and local players. Over time, he realized that many people who could benefit most from the structure and joy of chess had the fewest opportunities to learn.
After spending time in spaces like the Community Kitchen, the YMCA, local libraries, and coffee shops, Ben noticed how many people were looking for connection, routine, and something meaningful to focus on. Chess became a natural bridge.
Instead of charging standard coaching rates, Ben began offering lessons free of charge for people experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, disability, or financial hardship, and asking the broader community to support the work through donations.