CircEsteem
CircEsteem, established in 2001, 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. Our programs offer a unique blend of physical activity and creative expression, helping young people to grow in confidence, collaboration, and perseverance.
CircEsteem strives to make circus available to all students regardless of financial means.
To serve this mission, we offer financial aid to eligible participants.
Fall Registration Now Open!
Featured Programs
HomeWork & CircusWork
Located in a number of CPS schools across Chicago and our Uptown Headquarters, HomeWork & CircusWork (HWCW) is a free after school program for youth.
Chicago Youth Circus
Chicago Youth Circus (CYC) is a vibrant Saturday program held in two locations, dedicated to developing circus skills and providing performance opportunities for youth. Our program includes a variety of circus disciplines such as juggling, unicycle, gym wheel, trapeze, silks, lyra, clowning, and many other circus skills.
Performance Troupe
CircEsteem’s Performance Troupe is designed for experienced youth seeking to advance their skills to the next level and participate in performance opportunities through CircEsteem.
Summer Camp
Weekly camps run from June 16th through August 29th.
Summer camp allows children to explore circus arts like aerial silks, trapeze, and tumbling in a supportive environment. Each themed week builds confidence, teamwork, and self-esteem through games, songs, and crafts, culminating in a performance for family and friends. Experience the magic of the circus at CircEsteem!
*Financial aid available
Join CircEsteem’s 24th Annual Gala Celebration
Friday, September 26, 2025 | Venue West, Chicago
Cocktail Attire | Doors Open at 6:00 PM
Prepare to be swept away on an interstellar journey of joy, artistry, and community impact at Celestial Circus: Join the Joyful Revolution, CircEsteem’s 2025 Annual Gala. Held at the stunning Venue West, this year’s dinner-theatre style celebration will be an immersive evening featuring international artists, youth performers, interactive games, and dazzling circus spectacle, all in support of empowering Chicago youth through the transformative power of circus.
This is more than a gala—it’s a joyful revolution. One night. Limitless impact.
You showed up... thank you!
Our summer campaign raised $16,326, providing a full week of free summer camp to 32 youth—along with the circus equipment, craft materials, and first aid supplies needed to keep the experience joyful, safe, and hands-on.
Your generosity made a powerful impact!
Thank you for standing with us—and with Chicago youth.
Serving Chicago Smiles Since 2001
“To see the look in a kid’s eyes when they first juggle or spin a plate, it’s like a light goes off. It’s just so magical to see”
Sam Brown, Teaching Artist
We Bring The Fun To You
Parties & Workshops
Hire CircEsteem for your next birthday, bar/bat mitzvah, parade, corporate or professional sporting event. We provide strolling performers, interactive circus workshops, and fully produced circus shows.
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Subscribe to Stay Updated!
info@circesteem.org
(773) 732-4564
4730 N. Sheridan Rd.
Chicago, IL 60640
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