Opportunity Snapshot

Overview: CircEsteem unites youth across Chicago, across backgrounds and identities, through the practice and performance of circus arts. In a city where so many young people are separated by neighborhood, race, income, and opportunity, CircEsteem creates rare, shared space: a place where youth train together, trust one another, and discover what they are capable of becoming.

Rooted in the global tradition of social circus, CircEsteem blends circus arts and social intervention to support whole-person development, social inclusion, artistic expression, and life skills, especially for youth navigating heightened barriers and stressors. CircEsteem is often described as “a place called home” and operates from a dedicated social circus facility that serves as both a training ground and a community anchor.

Since its founding in 2001, CircEsteem has grown from a modest budget to an approximately $2.2 million organization, supported by a dedicated team of roughly 16 full-time staff. The organization’s culture is anchored in how staff show up: with humility, patience, love, and continued self-reflection, grounded in culturally responsive relationships and an equity lens that centers youth voice.

CircEsteem does not simply teach circus. It builds a citywide community where young people learn to trust themselves, trust one another, and imagine a bigger future.

The Moment: CircEsteem is stepping into the next chapter with uncommon strengths: a citywide mission that unites youth across backgrounds and identities, a dedicated state-of-the-art facility, a respected social circus model that delivers real developmental outcomes, and a community that believes deeply in what is possible when young people are given space to belong, take risks, and be celebrated.

For CircEsteem’s next Executive Director, this is an opportunity to build on a strong foundation and help carry the organization forward, strengthening stability, visibility, and impact for years to come. In partnership with the Board and staff, the next leader will set clear direction, deepen trust, and lead fundraising efforts that ensure CircEsteem’s resources match the scale and ambition of its mission.

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $125,000-$140,000, commensurate with experience, along with a competitive benefits package.

Inquiries: This search is being led by Chartise Clark, Founder and Managing Partner, at Avra Search Partners. Any confidential inquiries can be shared via email: cclark@avrasearch.com

Candidates should submit a resume and a tailored letter of interest here.

Submitted materials will be reviewed regularly, with a priority deadline of:
Friday, March 20th at 5:00 PM CT.