Nationwide — As many families prepare for Spring Break, nationally recognized mentor and chess champion Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson is calling on parents to make a powerful decision that could shape their child’s future. From April 6–10, 2026, Hudson will host his 26th Annual Strategic Leadership Chess Camp, designed to help Black and underserved youth develop discipline, confidence, and life-saving decision-making skills.
Hosted daily from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 949 Stephenson Road in Stone Mountain, Georgia, this 5-day camp is more than just learning chess—it’s a movement focused on violence prevention, leadership, and personal growth.
For over two decades, Hudson, founder of Be Someone, Inc., has used chess as a powerful tool to transform lives. Through his program, he has trained over 100,000 young people to slow down, think critically, and avoid making life-altering mistakes. His message is simple but urgent: “Think it out, don’t shoot it out. Brains beat bullets 24/7/365.”
During Spring Break, many children are left unsupervised—making them vulnerable to negative influences, street violence, and poor decisions. Hudson’s camp provides a safe, structured environment where youth are taught how to think ahead, stay focused, and make winning moves both on and off the chessboard.
Participants will learn:
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Leadership and self-discipline
• How to handle pressure and emotions
• The importance of making smart life choices
“This isn’t just about chess,” says Hudson. “It’s about teaching our young people that one bad move can change their life forever—but one good decision can change everything.”
Parents are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to invest in their child’s future. The camp is especially impactful for youth in underserved communities who may not otherwise have access to mentorship, structure, or positive outlets during school breaks.
Media outlets are invited to attend, cover the camp, and experience live demonstrations—including Hudson’s signature life-sized chessboard presentations, which powerfully connect strategy with real-life decisions.
Event Details:
What: 5-Day Strategic Leadership Chess Camp
Who: Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson & Be Someone, Inc.
When: April 6–10, 2026 | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Where: 949 Stephenson Road, Stone Mountain, GA
Website: BeSomeone.org/events
Don’t let this Spring Break be wasted. Make the right move. Give your child a chance to WIN in life.
About the Founder
Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson is a nationally recognized chess champion, motivational speaker, and founder of Be Someone, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through education and strategic thinking. Over the past 25+ years, he has traveled across the country teaching life lessons through chess, reaching more than 100,000 young people in schools, communities, and correctional facilities. Known for his powerful message of nonviolence and personal responsibility, Hudson has been featured in national media and has worked tirelessly to help young people—especially those in underserved communities—avoid crime, stay in school, and build brighter futures. His mission remains clear: to use chess as a tool to develop leaders, save lives, and transform communities one move at a time.
For press inquiries, contact 770-465-6445 or info@besomeone.org