Give the Gift of Chess – Support Scholastic Players throughout Wisconsin!

Wisconsin Scholastic Chess Federation is experiencing significant growth. In 2025-26, we have scheduled 37 tournaments and anticipate adding additional events. Last year, over 900 students participated in our programs, and this year we expect to exceed 1,000 students. Our organization currently employs 12 trained chess instructors who provide instruction within six recreation departments, six clubs and schools, and through several private lessons. In addition to a full-time Executive Director, we have a part-time staff of four individuals. We offer tournament services to nearly 60 clubs throughout Wisconsin, including North Central Wisconsin, Green Bay, Baraboo, and the Milwaukee Metropolitan Area.

We know chess is more than just a game; it is a powerful educational tool that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience. Through our programs, we provide students with the chance to learn and excel in chess, developing skills that will serve them both on and off the board.

We aim to raise $20,000 annually to fund our program initiatives, including workshops, tournaments, and scholarships for students with demonstrated financial need. Your contribution directly impacts the lives of young learners, equipping them with not only chess skills but also essential life skills.

WSCF does a lot with what we have – we need your help to make our efforts go even further. Here’s a list of ways your support can make a difference:

  • Pawn Level: A $50 gift provides a year of online chess lessons, puzzles, and virtual tournament games to a student with financial need.

    Knight Level: A $75 gift supports three students with financial need to compete in a tournament.

    Bishop Level: A $125 gift provides a scholarship to chess camp for one student with financial need.

    Rook Level: A $250 gift purchases 10 new chess sets for tournament use.

    Queen Level: A $500 gift supports a Super Saturday, which includes chess instruction interspersed with a five-round tournament and trophies and medals for participants.

    Promotion Pawn/Queening Level: A $1,000 gift buys chess instruction and chess boards for an 8-week class for a school.

  • King Level: A $2,750 gift allows us to purchase all new (200) chess sets for tournaments and support Clubs with mini-grants.
  • Checkmate Level: A $5,000 gift supports an under-resourced chess club for an entire school year, which includes three 8-week sessions, ChessKid Gold for all students, and fifty tournament entry fees for the Club.

Your generosity can help us create a brighter future for these children. Together, we can inspire them to think critically, dream big, and believe in their abilities.

Together, we’re growing young minds for the future!