A Decade of Partnership in Action
When we’re trying to make change across the city, it takes time. Change is only going to happen if you make the real investment.
Today, we’re releasing “The Long Game” – what sustained partnership with Chicago Parks District and Nike creates when you’re committed to systems change. Our flagship partnership through Nike’s Swoosh Summer Academy proves that sustained investment pays off. Over the past ten years, we’ve trained 14,000+ recreation leaders who serve over 159,000 young people.
What the Long Game Means
We used to show up and do all the training. The partnership evolved into a comprehensive train-the-trainer model with 60 internal Park District Ambassadors, creating lasting system transformation that continues through Chicago’s new Professional Development Manager role. This is why true systems change takes time. It doesn’t matter what change we make in individuals when they go into systems that need to grow. Real transformation happens when the people within institutions have the tools, support, and authority to create healing-centered environments themselves.
The Power of Sustained Partnership
This being our tenth year, we’re in it for the long game. Trust is built over time through consistent support and shared commitment to what young people actually need – safe spaces where they can regulate, move their bodies, and experience the right type of challenges to help them grow.
We believe nothing heals like sport. And we believe that lasting change requires real investment in the people and systems that serve young people every day.
Watch “The Long Game.” Feel inspired. And let’s keep up the work to ensure healing-centered sport for all young people.
Questions? Want to join the healing-centered sport movement? Follow us on socials @chjsorg and/or email us, team@chjs.org