Thank You!
Our So Much More Than Circus summer campaign has ended, and thanks to you, we raised $16,326 toward our $25,000 goal. This campaign was launched in response to urgent state and federal funding cuts. While we didn’t hit our full target, your generosity ensured something remarkable: 32 youth received a full week of summer camp at no cost—plus the circus gear, craft supplies, and safety materials that help make camp creative, safe, and full of joy.
Thank you for showing up for Chicago youth and standing with us to keep enrichment programming accessible and impactful. We are so proud to have you in the CircEsteem family!
What's the Pie Challenge?
CircEsteem launched the "So Much More Than Circus" summer programming awareness and fundraising campaign, with a goal of $25,000 by midnight on August 4th. Our aim was to raise critical funds to enable us to provide accessible and affordable summer circus camp for Chicago youth.
Summer is a critical time for youth—especially here in Chicago. With school out and fewer safe, affordable options in many neighborhoods, programs like CircEsteem’s summer camp play a powerful role in keeping kids engaged, supported, and connected. Our programs aren’t just about circus tricks. They’re about self-esteem. Teamwork. Belonging.
They are #SoMuchMoreThanCircus.
- Over 65% of campers attend for free
- Programming runs daily from 9am–3pm
- Campers come from across Chicago — and we provide transportation, activity, creativity, mentorship, and ✨ magic!
Check out these Pie Challenge highlights that helped spread the word and encouraged community participation in this fundraising campaign:
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn to see your impact in action!
You can still contribute to CircEsteem with an online donation today, or see more ways to support our youth on our SUPPORT OUR YOUTH page.
Why it Matters
The truth is, like so many youth-serving organizations, CircEsteem is navigating a challenging moment. Sudden state and federal funding cuts, combined with a drop in individual giving, have forced us to make incredibly difficult decisions, including reducing staff and scaling back programs.
But our mission hasn’t changed. We’re still here—committed to showing up for young people across Chicago. Your support helps us keep our doors open, our camps thriving, and our youth uplifted.
While we can’t solve all the world’s challenges, we can create one small, joyful corner of the world where kids feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
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info@circesteem.org
(773) 732-4564
4730 N. Sheridan Rd.
Chicago, IL 60640
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