About Us
Well Chicago's Mission & Vision
Well Chicago is working to solve a critical gap in out-of-school youth development through creative enrichment, community connection, and civic engagement for students of elementary and middle school age.
We envision a Chicago where children are recognized as civic actors, creativity is a pathway to connection, and every family has access to enriching spaces that foster wellbeing.
Our Approach
- Well Chicago offers free enrichment in community spaces during evenings and weekends.
- Each session includes mindfulness practices with hands-on, imagination-based activities that develop creativity, connection, and a sense of belonging.
- While children participate in a safe, enriching environment, caregivers are given meaningful time to rest, work, or attend to responsibilities — supporting whole-family wellness.
Our Programs
1. INVENTION BOX: Encourages creativity and civic thinking as children design practical solutions for real-life challenges using everyday materials.
2. WONDER LINES: Through connective art and compassionate storytelling, children share their voices and make a visible impact in their neighborhoods.
3. BRAVE STAGE: Children develop confidence and leadership with movement, collaboration, and performance.
Our Work Matters
- Only about 27% of Chicago schoolchildren are enrolled in after-school programs, leaving most without structured enrichment during critical after-school hours.
- Youth who feel strongly connected to their community experience nearly 50% lower rates of mental health challenges.
- Creativity-based enrichment is linked with up to ~30–60% higher developmental outcomes in cognitive performance, emotional expression, and motor skills compared to children without regular creative engagement.