Real Skills. Real Confidence. Circus with a Purpose.
CircEsteem is a 501(c)(3) helping Chicago's youth build confidence, agency, and community through circus arts.
Social circus is an innovative social intervention approach based on using circus arts to impact social change.
Our Commitment
- Setting clear expectations for kindness, respect, and teamwork in every program
- Providing trained staff who prioritize youth well-being and positive mentorship
- Creating inclusive activities where every participant can take part and feel valued
- Addressing harmful behavior quickly and constructively
- Encouraging youth to celebrate their identities while building community with others
Through circus arts, we create a space where young people build confidence, trust, and a strong sense of belonging.
Accessibility
CircEsteem strives to make circus available to all students regardless of financial means.
To serve this mission, we offer financial aid to eligible participants.
Together, We Make Dreams Come True!
Every day at CircEsteem, young people discover their strength, creativity, and sense of belonging through circus arts. Our programs build confidence, teamwork, and emotional resilience while giving youth a safe space to be seen, supported, and celebrated. Your support helps keep these programs accessible to families across Chicago and allows us to reach more young people who need positive outlets and community. Click the link to learn more about how you can support our mission and make a lasting impact.
Sign Up for Summer Camp & More!
CircEsteem’s Summer Circus Camp provides a fun, safe, and supportive environment where children are encouraged to explore, move, and grow. Through hands-on circus arts training led by professional teaching artists, campers develop physical strength, confidence, collaboration, self-regulation, and a deeper understanding of their own potential.
Chicago's best summer camp runs
June 8th - August 21st, 2026
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.
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Subscribe to Stay Updated!
info@circesteem.org
(773) 732-4564
4730 N. Sheridan Rd.
Chicago, IL 60640
No receptionist Thursdays
Quick Links
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