As part of the FIDE Year of Social Chess, FIDE Social Commission is excited to welcome you to July – The Month of Recovery, featuring a unique International Master Class Series you won’t want to miss.
Why Recovery?
Chess is more than a game—it’s a tool for healing, growth, and rebuilding. Throughout July, we’re sharing inspiring stories and best practices that show how chess can support recovery from addiction, cognitive challenges, and serious illness.
Where?
Online via Zoom link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85143492687?pwd=hc2xHGRXYnlEiMP6CCOghcCXyqk9u9.1
(Meeting ID: 851 4349 2687, Passcode: 930160)
Duration: 45 minutes each (20-minute talk + 20-minute Q&A)
Language: English (but feel free to ask questions in Spanish, Italian, or Portuguese!)
Meet our hosts:
Juan Antonio Montero & Rodrigo Barbeito
From Club de Ajedrez Magic Extremadura (Spain)
For over 15 years, this pioneering team has used chess as a tool for psychological recovery and social reintegration. Their work supports individuals in addiction recovery, prisons, senior communities, and people with disabilities—bringing dignity, connection, and transformation through the 64 squares.
Recovery series schedule:
- 6 July | 18:00 CEST – Chess & Addiction Recovery
- 11 July | 18:00 CEST – Cognitive Impairment & Chess
- 19 July | 18:00 CEST – Cancer Recovery & the Chessboard
- 27 July | 18:00 CEST – Down’s Syndrome & Inclusive Chess
Special author session: A Wizard’s Guide to Family Recovery
25 July | 18:00 CET
Join us for a powerful conversation with Lance Wilson, author and mental health advocate. Lance will share how chess became a source of strength and meaning during his personal journey—and how it helped shape his book’s message of hope and healing.
Key topics:
- How chess supported his recovery from trauma
- Key takeaways from his book, grounded in lived experience
- How the game can guide us through life’s toughest moments
Whether you’re a coach, therapist, educator, or simply curious, these sessions offer new tools, powerful stories, and renewed hope.
We look forward to welcoming you!
FIDE Social Commission