Twenty-five years ago, CircEsteem began with a simple idea.

In 2001, a small group of young people gathered in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood to learn juggling together. What started as weekend circus classes quickly became something much bigger. Through circus arts, youth were building confidence, trust, teamwork, and friendships across backgrounds and experiences.

As CircEsteem grew, so did our vision.

In 2003, we incorporated as a nonprofit and launched Home Work & Circus Work, combining after-school academic support with circus arts. In 2006, the Chicago Youth Circus expanded opportunities for youth to perform, grow as leaders, and build lasting communities.

Over the years, our programs continued to evolve alongside the needs of the communities we serve.

In 2023, CircEsteem opened its dedicated Youth Center in Uptown, creating a permanent home where more than 1,300 young people now participate in our programs each year.

This October, we'll celebrate not only the history of CircEsteem, but the thousands of young people, families, volunteers, partners, and supporters who have made these 25 years possible.

Circus Spectacular

CircEsteem's 25th Anniversary Gala