At Beyond the Board, we believe that everyone, regardless of their background, has a story worth telling. Our Beyond the Words initiative was born out of a simple question:
What happens when we truly listen to voices that often go unheard?
Beyond the Words is more than a blog. It’s a platform for storytelling, reflection, and human connection. Through interviews, creative writing, and collaborative media, we aim to spotlight the lived experiences of individuals who often don’t have the opportunities to express what matters to them.
Why Stories Matter
In our first program with Women’s Lunch Place, a day shelter in Boston that provides meals, safety, and community for women in need, we hosted multiple chess sessions. However we quickly realized that the most meaningful moments came during conversations with each woman.
Some shared their experiences with resilience. Others expressed the joy of learning something new. Many simply appreciated being asked: “What do you want others to know about you?”
And that’s where this initiative began.
What You’ll Find in This Series
In Beyond the Words, you’ll discover:
- Short interviews with participants in our programs
- First-person reflections on past experiences
- Contributions like music compositions or chess games from workshops
- Stories from our volunteers about what they’ve learned through connection
Our Goals
Through this initiative, we hope to:
- Highlight marginalized or suppressed voices
- Build empathy and awareness through storytelling
- Bridge gaps between communities, generations, and cultures
- Highlight the strength and creativity within every person
This is only the beginning. As our nonprofit grows, so will this archive of voices; not just from the local community, but eventually from beyond
How You Can Support
- Read and share the stories that move you
- Volunteer to help conduct or write interviews
- Partner with us if your organization has individuals with stories to tell
- Reach out if you have something to say. We’re always willing to listen
Thank you for being part of this journey. At Beyond the Board, we go beyond the game, beyond the lesson, and beyond the words, because every voice matters.