CircEsteem

CircEsteem is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering social change through the innovative approach of social circus. By using the dynamic and engaging medium of circus arts, CircEsteem empowers Chicago’s youth to build self-esteem, develop valuable life skills in safe and inclusive environments. The organization offers a unique blend of physical activity and creative expression, helping young people to grow in confidence, collaboration, and perseverance.

CircEsteem provides circus classes at their Uptown location as well as at over 13 schools and community centers throughout the Chicagoland area. Their programs include HomeWork & CircusWork, a free after-school program that combines circus training with homework help and tutoring. The Chicago Youth Circus is a vibrant Saturday program held in two locations, dedicated to developing circus skills and providing performance opportunities for youth. The program includes a variety of circus disciplines such as juggling, unicycle, gym wheel, trapeze, silks, lyra, and clowning.

The Performance Troupe is designed for experienced youth seeking to advance their skills to the next level and participate in performance opportunities. CircEsteem also offers Day at the Circus camps on non-CPS attendance days throughout the school year, featuring deeper dives into specific skills, group games, and arts & crafts activities. Each camp has a theme and is capped at 20 students.

CircEsteem hosts birthday parties, bar/bat mitzvahs, parades, corporate events, and professional sporting events, providing strolling performers, interactive circus workshops, and fully produced circus shows. The organization offers financial aid to eligible participants to ensure circus arts are accessible to all students regardless of financial means. Adult classes are also available, including Strength & Conditioning Yoga, helping adults build stability, mobility, and resilience while supporting the organization’s mission to empower youth through circus arts.