We deploy the power of sport and play and use evidence-based, healing-centered programming to:
- Help youth — pre-K-to-college and beyond — achieve academic success, develop critical social-emotional skills, and build social capital.
- Address systemic issues including economic inequity, poverty, racism, and violence.
- Strengthen Chicago’s future by building an enduring team of youth, coaches, families, schools, and neighborhoods.
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Enlist support from diverse networks of families, schools, and community members
Enlist support from diverse networks of families, schools, and community members
Enlist support from diverse networks of families, schools, and community members
Develop social-emotional learning through play
Develop social-emotional learning through play
Develop social-emotional learning through play
Use our network to help students build social capital
Use our network to help students build social capital
Use our network to help students build social capital
Why We Do It
Sports Can Change Lives
Sports and play have tremendous impact. They bring joy to and build confidence in the youths who participate. They unite families, schools, and communities.
But the playing field isn’t level. Chicago families need increased free play and sports opportunities for their children — especially those in the UI style, with caring coaches trained to instill teamwork, empathy, and stress-management.
We believe that delivering this kind of programming not only supports kids as they learn and grow but helps make Chicago safer, more equitable, and more connected, which is exactly what our city needs now.
87%
of UI participants come from families qualifying as low income
50K
CPS students participate in UI programs.
80+
Chicago Public Schools across the city have UI programs
Sponsors
Latest News
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Chicago Marathon Runners Support the Need for Local Communities to Have More Sports & Play
Every year the 2024 Chicago Marathon is a celebration of joy, community, and the power of play, drawing thousands of people out for the fun. Yet, in the very neighborhoods that host this iconic event, many Chicago youth and families still lack access to sports and play opportunities. This year, our Charity team is lacing…
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Notice of Intent to Apply for 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant
In accordance with the application instructions from the Illinois State Board of Education, Urban Initiatives hereby submits this notice of our intent to apply for the FY25 Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21stCCLC) grant. This application will be a joint application with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to serve the following schools: Chalmers…
