Urban Initiatives

A Chicago nonprofit community services organization. Urban Initiatives uses sports and play to support youth from pre-K through college and beyond. Its programming helps participants pursue academic success, develop social-emotional skills, and build social capital. The organization works with coaches, families, teachers, schools, and neighborhoods to strengthen local connections. It also trains adults in play-based social-emotional learning skills and coaching behaviors that help youth thrive. Programs include sports and play activities, academic enrichment, family engagement opportunities, and coach development. Urban Initiatives partners with Chicago Public Schools and has reached students across more than 80 schools. Its Community Member to Coach program combines sports coaching training with job readiness and financial literacy for youth apprentices.