Our third meetup is on November 3rd 2025 at Purcellville Library in Purcellville, Virginia. Drop in any time between 4-6PM.

🌟 November Special Guest Spotlight 🌟: Rene Picota

Join us Monday, November 3, and drop in anytime between 4–6 PM at the Purcellville Library for our free first-Monday-of-the-month youth chess meetup (grades K–12), featuring Special Guest Rene Picota — Vice President of the Shenandoah Valley Chess Club  (SVCC),  a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the  organization that powers The Pawn Project.

Rene is a lifelong student and fierce enthusiast of chess.  He is an accomplished chess player and especially talented in blitz and bold gambit-style play. He also uses his talents in digital promotion, event organization, and community engagement to strengthen SVCC and grow the regional chess community.

We’re grateful that Rene is bringing his enthusiasm and energy to The Pawn Project as our November Special Guest, inspiring young players to explore, learn, and enjoy the game.

SVCC's belief in the power of youth leadership made it possible for this program to exist and to thrive. We are grateful for the ongoing support of team members like Rene, who encourage our youth to experience the benefits of chess and guide them along the way.