In times of change, connection sustains impact.
This November, Urban Initiatives hosted its first-ever Town Hall: Updates from the Field – Navigating Change, Sustaining Impact. It was a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect around the shared belief that when young people play, learn, and lead together, communities thrive.
More than 50 partners, supporters, and teammates joined to hear insights from across the Urban Initiatives community. Our speakers Jennifer Axelrod (The Chicago Community Trust), Tiffany Wilson-Washington (UI Chief Program Officer), Coach Angelo Villa (Little Village Academy), and Luis Hernandez (UI Alum) each brought a unique perspective on resilience, belonging, and the ripple effects of play.
Strengthening Communities Through Relationships
“Lasting change begins with strong relationships.” – Jennifer Axelrod
Jennifer Axelrod, Senior Director of Learning & Impact at The Chicago Community Trust and a member of UI’s Board of Directors, framed the larger context for youth development today.
“Urban Initiatives now serves over 100,000 students across more than 70 schools in 40 neighborhoods. This scale is significant, but it’s the relationships behind the numbers that matter most. Every game, every huddle, every check-in between a coach and a student strengthens the web of trust that makes thriving possible.”
Jennifer reminded us that Urban Initiatives isn’t simply adapting programs, we’re advancing a proven model of prevention through community building.
Leading with Purpose
“One of the best parts of my job is seeing our work come to life every single day.” – Tiffany Wilson-Washington
Chief Program Officer Tiffany Wilson-Washington reminded us that Urban Initiatives’ strength comes from the people who bring the mission to life: coaches, youth, and partners working side by side across Chicago.
“Our programs are led by people who know their communities, believe in young people’s potential, and show up with consistency and care. Every success story starts there.”
Her message underscored how Urban Initiatives continues to build belonging and opportunity through the everyday leadership of those on the ground.
On the Ground in Little Village
“A simple connection through play can change a student’s whole outlook.” – Coach Angelo Villa
Coach Angelo Villa grew up in Little Village and now teaches and coaches at Little Village Academy, leading the same program that shaped him as a student.
“Many of our kids face big challenges, but what stands out is their determination and heart. Urban Initiatives helps keep that spirit alive. Families are involved, alumni come back to visit, and you see firsthand how consistency and care make all the difference.”
Angelo’s story shows what sustainable impact looks like: connection, trust, and belonging that ripple across generations.
The Ripple Effect of Alumni Impact
“When I think about UI, I think about relationships.” – Luis Hernandez
From a third grader at James Otis Elementary to a sophomore at Northwestern University, Luis Hernandez embodies the long-term impact of play.
“I joined Urban Initiatives because I wanted to play soccer, but what I got was so much more. I learned to lead, to lift others up, and to believe in myself. Those lessons stay with you.”
This summer, Luis returned as an Assistant Coach, mentoring the next generation of captains. His journey captures what “sustaining impact” truly means: relationships that grow, evolve, and continue to strengthen communities.
Looking Ahead
The Town Hall reminded us that Urban Initiatives’ greatest strength lies not only in programs but in people. Coaches, students, families, and partners create the connections that power progress.
As we look toward 2026, our charge is clear: stay in the game, keep building community, and ensure every young person in Chicago has the opportunity to play, lead, and thrive.
