Savvy · YMChess Assistant
Online
Hi — I'm Savvy, the Young Minds Chess assistant. Looking to enroll a child, donate, volunteer, or learn about our programs? I'm here to help.
A federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit empowering underserved youth in Washington State through chess, strategy, and STEM education. Founded and led by Charell Williams.
Every opening, every sacrifice, every endgame teaches a young person to think ahead, recover from setbacks, and strategize for victory — in chess and in life.
We serve underserved youth across Washington State, providing free or low-cost chess instruction, STEM integration, mentorship, and technology access to youth who need it most.
"Critical thinking is the most valuable thing you can give a child. So why is it the last thing some of them are offered?"
Our programs are rooted in the belief that critical thinking, strategy, and opportunity should be accessible to every child — not just the ones whose families can afford private lessons or elite schools.
Every program we run is built on these four ideas, in this order. Chess is the entry point. Strategy is the muscle. STEM is the bridge. Mentorship is the catalyst.
From total beginners to competitive players. We teach openings, tactics, endgames, and the discipline that comes with sitting across from a worthy opponent.
Planning multiple moves ahead. Recovering from a bad position. Emotional regulation under pressure. The skills carry far beyond the board.
Pattern recognition, algorithmic thinking, math reasoning, and exposure to VR, drones, and coding. Chess is the gateway to the wider world of STEM.
Caring adults, positive role models, and structured environments. Kids don't just learn chess — they learn what it looks like to be invested in.
Whether you want to enroll a child, donate, volunteer, or bring our programs to your school — there's a clear next step.