We're a student-founded movement using the world's oldest strategy game to protect minds — through community tournaments, free chess programs for seniors, and formal university research.
When co-founder Caton Tsao's grandparents developed Alzheimer's and could no longer recognize him, he and expert-level chess player Allen Hong decided to fight back with what they knew best — chess.
What began as two students hosting local fundraising tournaments has grown into a multi-city initiative with a formal research partnership at Clemson University, investigating whether chess can scientifically reduce cognitive decline.
Read the full storyFrom community fundraising to senior outreach to university research — every program moves the mission forward.
USCF-rated tournaments across South Carolina where every entry fee goes to the Alzheimer's Association's #TheLongestDay campaign. All skill levels welcome.
Explore tournaments →Free weekly chess classes at retirement communities — bringing cognitive stimulation and genuine social connection to the people most at risk.
See senior outreach →A formal study at Clemson University investigating whether chess activates the exact brain regions Alzheimer's attacks — and whether it builds cognitive reserve.
See the science →Together with Dr. Kaileigh Byrne of Clemson University's Decision Lab, we launched a cross-sectional study comparing long-time chess players with non-players aged 65+ — measuring which brain regions chess activates and whether long-term play correlates with reduced cognitive decline.
"There is almost no work specifically on chess, despite its engagement of multiple cognitive functions simultaneously. This research is long overdue."
Caton Tsao and Aman Sreshta proposed a cross-sectional research study to Dr. Kaileigh Byrne at Clemson University, examining which brain regions activate during chess.
Caton and Allen host community tournaments raising funds for the Association's #TheLongestDay campaign across Upstate and Midlands South Carolina.
International coverage linking chess to cognitive health and Alzheimer's prevention — putting the initiative in front of a worldwide chess audience.
"I have witnessed the profound impact of Alzheimer's on the patient and the family. With this project, I hoped to help others in my community."
Join the students, seniors, and chess players fighting Alzheimer's — wherever you are.