ACC TRANSFORMERS RITE OF PASSAGE EXPERIENCE (R.O.P.E)

Big Chair Chess Club (BCCC) and ACC Transformers Rite Of Passage Experience (R.O.P.E) are partnering because both organizations serve the same mission: protecting youth in Washington, D.C.—especially in Wards 7 & 8—from drugs, violence, and negative influences by providing structured, meaningful alternatives.

ACC Transformers R.O.P.E. focuses on drug abatement, opioid awareness, life-skills training, mentorship, and prevention education. Their goal is to guide youth toward healthier decisions through community-based activities, education, and strong relationships.

Big Chair Chess Club brings a unique, powerful tool to that mission: chess as a life-skills and decision-making system. Through the “Always Think B4U Move” philosophy, BCCC teaches critical thinking, patience, consequences, focus, self-control, and long-term planning—skills that directly strengthen a young person’s ability to resist peer pressure, avoid risky behaviors, and choose healthier paths.

Together, the partnership creates a holistic prevention model:

• R.O.P.E. provides drug-awareness, guidance, and community support,
   
• BCCC provides structured engagement, tournaments, mentorship, and positive identity-building,
   
• And both provide safe spaces, trusted adults, and pathways to growth.
   

This collaboration keeps youth active, connected, and empowered, reducing the likelihood of substance use by replacing risk with opportunity, discipline, and purpose.