Nationwide — Orrin Hudson, the Founder of nationally recognized nonprofit Be Someone, Inc., is inviting families to enroll their children in the final weeks of his Summer Strategic Leadership Chess Camp. More than just a chess program, the camp uses the game as a powerful tool to teach critical thinking, leadership, emotional intelligence, and peaceful conflict resolution. He says that these are life skills that help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
The ongoing camp runs its last three weeks from Monday, July 13, through Friday, July 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Dreaming Room at Be Someone, Inc., 949 Stephenson Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30087. Open to children of varying skill levels, the program emphasizes that every decision has consequences, encouraging students to slow down, think strategically, and make wise choices before taking action. Families can register online, but seating is limited.
Hudson, an Honorary Doctorate recipient, former Alabama State Trooper, U.S. Air Force veteran, two-time World Open Speed Chess Champion, and an Amazon #1 best-selling author, created the organization more than 20 years ago and has impacted the lives of more than 100,000 young people through its unique approach to youth development. For decades, he has traveled to schools, community centers, churches, juvenile detention facilities, and underserved neighborhoods across the country, demonstrating how the principles of chess can help young people become stronger leaders, better students, and more responsible citizens.
Hudson has dedicated his life to mentoring children and inspiring them to replace impulsive reactions with thoughtful decision-making. His message—”Think It Out—Don’t Shoot It Out”—has become a nationally recognized call for nonviolence, encouraging young people to solve problems with strategy instead of aggression. Through thousands of presentations and workshops, he has helped students build confidence, improve academic performance, strengthen communication skills, and develop the resilience needed to overcome personal and social challenges.
The program recently gained national attention after Hudson was featured on The Portia Show, where he demonstrated how chess is transforming the lives of young people by teaching patience, discipline, accountability, and leadership. The television appearance introduced millions of viewers to Be Someone, Inc.’s innovative approach to youth empowerment and highlighted the organization’s ongoing mission to create safer, stronger communities one child at a time.
Throughout the camp, students participate in engaging chess instruction while developing practical life skills that extend far beyond the game board. Lessons focus on critical thinking, strategic decision-making, leadership development, emotional intelligence, goal setting, problem solving, conflict resolution, self-discipline, communication skills, and learning how to think before acting—abilities that can positively influence their education, relationships, and future careers.
Parents interested in enrolling their children in the final four weeks of the Summer Strategic Leadership Chess Camp can learn more and register at BeSomeone.org
For press inquiries or media interviews, contact orrin@besomeone.org or 770-465-6445