Volunteer with us!

More than “just chess,”

Help us make a difference in the lives of others.

Why the need?

C4L was originally created as a unique, restorative justice program, where youth that had been sentenced to community service hours could come to the University of Lethbridge for 25 hours of chess instruction. While this is still our main program, C4L has expanded to exist in elementary and secondary schools, seniors homes, community organizations and the Lethbridge Correctional Centre.

Due to the high demand for programming, we are seeking volunteers who many be interested in any of the following opportunities:

  • Playing chess with youth (ages 12-18) on Friday afternoons, 1-3pm

  • Playing chess with youth (ages 12-18) as part of an after school club (date/time TBD)

  • Playing chess with offenders at the Lethbridge Correctional Centre (Tue or Wed evenings, 6-8pm)

  • Playing chess with local alternative schools and/or organizations (date/time TBD)

  • Playing chess with local seniors (Thursday mornings and/or afternoons)

  • More to come!

Requirements

No experience in chess is needed to volunteer - come and learn with the populations we work with! Our participants vary in their experience levels, as do our volunteers. Whether you’re a beginner or a ranked FIDE player, you will absolutely learn something during your time with C4L.

In addition to chess, we are also conducting research on the program to help establish why the program has been so effective since its establishment in 2016. University of Lethbridge students who are interested in participating in the research component are welcome to contact Jade Oldfield at j.oldfield@uleth.ca. Students are welcome to volunteer, or may be considered for an independent or applied study.

Volunteer duties vary, but include:

  • Setting up and taking down Chess for Life supplies (snacks, chess sets, technology for lessons, etc.)

  • Playing chess 

  • Providing a positive and safe atmosphere for participants

  • Understanding and sharing the C4L philosophy

  • Being present and understanding of participants with diverse lived experiences

  • Maintaining strict confidentiality

In order to volunteer with youth, volunteers must have a clean criminal record check with a vulnerable sector search (VSS). Volunteers will be provided with a letter so they can access this search at a discounted cost through the Lethbridge Police Service. Volunteers working with adults simply need the criminal record check (no VSS); a letter will be provided for this as well.

All training will be provided for C4L, including basic chess instruction. Interested applicants can contact Jade Oldfield at j.oldfield@uleth.ca with any questions, or to set up a meeting to further discuss this opportunity.