Greater Peoria Chess Foundation (GPCF) 60 years and running

The Greater Peoria Chess Foundation (GPCF) has been at the forefront of the chess scene in Peoria for over 60 years. Though, the official nonprofit organization as we know it today was established in 1996 after merging with the Greater Peoria Chess Federation. The GPCF’s mission is rooted in the intrinsic understanding of the power of chess to develop many important life skills – logical thinking, problem-solving, and self-confidence, to name a few.

 

They achieve this by striving to make chess accessible to the public, especially young players, via incorporation into local school systems. They make a point to invest into programs which support students in their academic and personal growth, rather than simply chess and nothing more. Through scholarship opportunities, talented youth programs are offered scholarships to help them access various chess opportunities – the largest example is several youth players being able to play in the Supernationals in just a few months. Further, the foundation helps integrate chess into school to further enrich students' lives through chess.

 

Beyond the basic educational initiatives, the GPCF organizes numerous tournaments throughout the year. The most impressive of which is the Bradley Summer Open, which is one of, if not the longest-running college chess tournaments in the United States. This event draws in players from all over the country and cements Peoria in the national chess scene. Adding onto this prestigious event, the GPCF coordinates many other local events which make it possible for players of all ages and experience to get involved.

 

Through six decades of tireless work, the GPCF has cemented chess as a vibrant and unending part of the local Peoria culture. Their commitment to provide resources and create an amazing space for players of all ages is an ongoing effort that has no end in sight. By fostering an environment which values community, intellectual growth, and education, the GPCF helps guarantee that chess will remain an enduring and accessible sport for all those that want to.

 

Finally, I’d like to thank Emily Dawson for meeting with me to provide all of this information. Emily is the current secretary for the GPCF and an amazing asset to the team. Though she only joined the chess community when her son started playing chess back more than 10 years ago, she’s been of vital importance to the chess scene in Peoria ever since; helping to coordinate and run tournaments. She is truly an embodiment of the fact that it’s never too late to start whatever you aspire towards.

 

Once again, make sure to pay attention towards the Greater Peoria Chess Federation, and give them a visit if you’re ever in the neighborhood.