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.
Urban Initiatives’ Kickoff Training celebrated the coaches who empower Chicago youth through safe, skill-building, and independence-boosting play.
This summer, 75 Chicago high school interns gained job skills and gave back as coaches and role models through Urban Initiatives’ summer sports camps with One Summer Chicago.
Urban Initiatives’ 10th Annual Corporate Challenge Cup brought Chicago companies together for a day of competition and community, raising support for free sports and play programs for youth.
Urban Initiatives’ Coach Apprenticeship Program empowers North Lawndale youth with leadership and coaching skills to strengthen their community.
Urban Initiatives and Microsoft partnered for the third year of The Circuit, blending sports and tech to equip Chicago youth with skills for future success.
This summer, pro athletes Mallory Swanson, Dansby Swanson, Ian Happ, and Jayden Reed joined Urban Initiatives to celebrate the power of play and inspire Chicago youth through unforgettable experiences.
