Everyday Akron Stories, Non-Profit Feature

Discovery Chess Learning Academy | Non-Profit Feature

close up of a hand placing a chess piece on the board at Discovery Chess Learning Academy

When did the non-profit get started?ย 

Discovery Chess Learning Academy began in 2017. It is a non-profit based in Akron, run by Akron women who are committed to community projects.

What are the mission and vision of the non-profit?

Mission: At Discovery Chess Learning Academy, we are committed to making chess accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where every student has a positive and enriching learning experience.

We encourage our students to actively participate, strive for excellence, and embrace the pursuit of knowledge. Through chess, we aim to inspire confidence, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for the game.

group of kids playing chess at Discovery Chess Learning Academy

Vision: Our vision is to cultivate a thriving chess community by providing high-quality chess education to players of all levels. We strive to develop not only strong chess players but also individuals equipped with valuable life lessons and discipline. Through our guidance, we aim to empower our students with skills that extend beyond the chessboard, helping them succeed in all aspects of life.

Who do you help and why?ย 

Women in Chess and under represented youth. We raise funds and awareness for womenโ€™s gynecological cancer through yearly fundraisers and teaching life lessons through chess at juvenile detention centers in Ohio.

group of women sitting at a table that says US Chess Women

What do you hope to accomplish in the future?ย 

Expanding the Chess for Cure initiative, supporting more female chess players, developing community programs, more funding for juvenile chess programs and expanding the academyโ€™s physical presence.

flier for Art of Strategy Gala by Discovery Chess Learning Academy

How can people get involved?

Attend and donate to the Art of Strategy Gala and help us raise funds gynecological cancer and juvenile chess programs at Ohio detention centers.

Follow this non-profit on social media 

Want to learn more or get in contact with Discovery Chess Learning Academy? Visit the Discovery Chess Learning Academy website or send an email to kalanithi@discoverychess.org or sadiasaleem@yahoo.com.

headshot of Kalanithi Bagley, owner of Discovery Chess Learning Academy

Special thanks to Kalanithi Kanapathy-Bagley, CEO of Discovery Chess Learning Academy, for sending organization information and providing photos.

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