Where Play Meets Adventure
Urban Initiatives’ middle school captains enjoyed an unforgettable week at Camp Manitowa, filled with first swims, fearless climbs, and lasting friendships made possible by Camp Out for Kids.
Category Archive
News
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A Summer Full of Play, Learning, and Full-Circle Moments
This summer, Urban Initiatives programs brought sports, learning, and leadership to more than 700 Chicago students – sparking joy, growth, and community across playgrounds, fields, and classrooms.
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From Burnout to Buy-In: How Play-Based Professional Development Reignites Purpose
Walk into any school or youth program today, and you will see it. Staff who care deeply about young people but who are tired. Burnout is not just a buzzword. It is a reality many educators, after-school staff, and youth workers face. But here is what we have learned: Purpose can be reignited through professional…
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Soccer Ball 25′ Raises $735K for Sports and Play
For 20 years, Team Urban Initiatives has been changing the game for kids across Chicago, ensuring that play is accessible to youth and families in Chicago. On January 31, 2025, we brought together our champions for sport and play night to do more than celebrate. Together, we fueled the future. A Record-Breaking Night Thanks to…
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Uniting for Impact: Loyola Ramblers, Chicago Fitness Community & Corporate Leaders Give Back
On October 5th, over 120 students from five Chicago public schools gathered at Midway Plaisance Park for the 11th Annual Connection Cup, an event celebrating diversity, culture, and connection through play. The day was brought to life by 30 dedicated volunteers, including UI associate board members from Chicago’s corporate, nonprofit, and fitness communities, as well…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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Building Community: UI Celebrates Our 20th Anniversary in New Video
Through its team sports and play, UI gives youth “a reason to matter,” UI alum Lizbeth Barajas says in the video, “and I feel like that’s really important for kids.”
