The Gift of Chess Donates 500 chess sets to Rikers Island

Rikers Island is a 413 acre island in the East River between Queens and the Bronx that contains New York City's main prison complex.

It is referred to as the world's largest penal colony and is the 2nd largest jail in the United States.

Recently we donated 500 chess sets.....

"I want to say that I had been watching the developments & plans being made all the way up till the grand event at Rikers! (through emails) The communication was on point. The planning, logistics, the commitment & the focus was remarkable to watch come to fruition.

Because of you all, the men housed at Rikers, life will forever be changed. This moment was a breath of fresh air into deprived lungs. I thank you, on behalf of those men, for the dedication of everyone involved. I get it because I am still locked up.

And I know the power that chess has on men incarcerated. For hours you can play the game and lose yourself in the game. It is a way of escape. If just for a few hours.

As we all continue to push forward into other similar projects we will, one facility at a time, change the world. In closing -big ups to my guys! You felt that energy inside that prison! you were touched & transformed. Forever grateful for your courage & strength."

Tony Ballard, The Gift of Chess Director of Prison Outreach