Urban Initiatives

Urban Initiatives’ trainings show adults how small, caring practices can transform classrooms and communities, creating a ripple of connection, confidence, and joy throughout Chicago.

Urban Initiatives’ relationship-centered approach to sport and play reflects a newly validated national framework showing that community well-being and lasting systems change grow from strong, trust-based connections among youth, families, schools, and neighborhoods.

Urban Initiatives, in partnership with Chicago Public Schools, intends to apply for the FY26 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant to expand academic enrichment and family engagement programming at eight CPS elementary schools where UI already provides out-of-school time support.

Urban Initiatives proudly celebrates Andy Neilsen’s induction into the Sport for Good Chicago Hall of Fame, honoring his decades of compassionate leadership, coaching, and unwavering dedication to using sport as a force for inclusion, empowerment, and community transformation across Chicago.

Urban Initiatives joined 140 community leaders at the Laureus Sport for Good Chicago Town Hall to strengthen collaboration and empower Chicago’s youth through sport and play.

On October 25, 2025, 100 middle school students came together at Urban Initiatives’ Leadership Retreat to build teamwork, connect across neighborhoods, and explore creativity through museum activities and sports.

Urban Initiatives’ Connection Cup brought together students and families from schools across Chicago to build unity and community through the power of sport and play.

Luis joined Urban Initiatives as a third grader, grew into a team captain, and returned as a college counselor at Camp Manitowa through One Summer Chicago, showing how the program builds community and lifelong leaders.

Urban Initiatives redefines coaching as a systems-change methodology, where coaches go beyond sports to create belonging, equity, and growth that transform kids, communities, and future generations.

Urban Initiatives equips CPS teachers with play-based strategies to support students’ social-emotional growth.