CircusTeens

CircusTeens is CircEsteem’s youth employment program created in 2004. It provides opportunities for older students to become more involved with CircEsteem. It is an opportunity for them to gain work experience and save money for college while doing something they love. The CircusTeens are paid to mentor younger students, teach circus skills, perform and assist at HomeWork & CircusWork, Summer and Winter Camp, and on Saturdays with the Chicago Youth Circus. In order to be a CircusTeen, students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average, demonstrate a level of maturity and responsibility, be able to show mastery of specific circus skills, have a passion for performing and model positive behavior and leadership skills.

Ali Haymes

Ali HaymeAli was born in Chicago and joined CircEsteem in 2002.  Her favorite circus skills are lyra, trapeze, silks, tight wire, acrobatics and Gym Wheel.  She has attended two AYCO (American Youth Circus Organization) festivals, traveled to Germany, performed all over Illinois, been on a two-week tour and performed for over 100,000 people around the world.  She loves going to CircEsteem to teach, learn new skills and be with her friends.  Ali believes CircEsteem is truly like a family to her.