Category Archive

Urban Initiatives

  • UI’s 2024 Game On Gala Raises $2.4 Million. Here’s What’s Next

    On Thursday, June 13th, Urban Initiatives (UI) hosted its first sit-down fundraising event, the Game On Gala, at RPM Events. This remarkable evening brought together philanthropists, donors, coaches, community members, UI alumni, and notable guests to underscore the importance of sports and play for Chicago youth while celebrating UI’s 20th anniversary in a formal and impactful way. The event…

  • 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…

  • CPS Student Earns Team Captain of the Year: WGN’s Daytime Chicago Spotlight’s UI Player

    Urban Initiatives’ youth leaders exemplify remarkable growth and skill development, leaving a lasting impact on schools and communities. To recognize their outstanding contributions, we annually present the Troy Cameron Team Captain of the Year award. This year, we our proud honoree was featured on WGN’s daytime Chicago. Laila, an 8th-grade student Kozminski Community Academy discovered…

  • Recess – Where’s the magic?

    Urban Initiatives seeks to make recess impactful for every student in our school communities. Our recess program creates genuine value during recess through improved physical activity, social emotional learning opportunities, and healing-centered community building.

    Recess – Where’s the magic?
  • Celebrating Our First Annual Community Cup

    Urban Initiatives’ (UI) first annual Community Cup was a complete success in celebrating the youth engaged in UI’s programs this year. The Community Cup was a month-long event, celebrating the resilience and strength of our youth throughout this difficult year.

    Celebrating Our First Annual Community Cup
  • Soccer Ball 2021 was a virtual success!

    Urban Initiatives’ most anticipated event of the year—the 2021 Soccer Ball presented by Allstate—was a great success! Despite the difficulties posed by the pandemic, we were still able to celebrate all of the challenges that we have overcome as a team, our incredible partners, awardees and friends and family who were able to join the…

  • This Must End – Urban Initiatives Stands Against anti-Asian Violence

    Urban Initiatives is devastated by the rise in anti-Asian American and Pacific Islander hate crimes including the tragic event that occurred in Atlanta on March 16th that resulted in the murder of eight people, including six women of Asian descent. We extend our deepest sympathies to the victims of this tragedy and their loved ones.…

  • A Note on the Unrest in Our Nation’s Capital

    The disgusting events on Wednesday, in our Nation’s Capital, have had a profound impact on the country. Urban Initiatives condemns violence and racism. UI remains steadfast in our commitment to empower young leaders and strengthen our future.