With its exuberance, artistry, accessibility and breath-taking feats, circus has universal appeal. Perhaps this, combined with its origin as a family endeavor, accounts for the historically strong role circuses have undertaken in community service. At Circus Juventas, we are committed to upholding that tradition.
Creating Connections
Listed below are some of the many ways Circus Juventas connects with and serves assorted populations in the Twin Cities. We are limited only by funding in the scope of our efforts. We proudly join the ranks of educators, social workers and activists the world over who are, to great effect, utilizing circus arts training to reach out, improve lives and instill self-confidence, discipline and – most important of all – hope in young people too often overlooked by mainstream society.
Neighborhood House
CJ has been partnering with fellow St. Paul organization Neighborhood House since 2011. Young NH boys and girls visit CJ once a week to tumble on trampolines, climb Spanish webs and juggle clubs as part of a tuition-free program, all the while practicing team building, perseverance and self-discovery.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
CJ was first approached by Big Brothers Big Sisters in the fall of 2014. The first open house, for “bigs,” “littles” and family members attracted over 100 guests, who came together to eat cookies and learn about the magic of circus. From there, a budding program was created to include a tuition-free class specifically for BBBS “littles.”
WINGS
This program was first introduced in 2005 to allow young students with developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in the circus arts. Many of the students who participate today have been “regulars” for years, and the program has evolved to grow as they grow.
OUT OF THE CHAIR
In 2014 this program was inspired by a former dancer who had injured her spine, rendering her a tetraplegic. On a quest to experience movement in new ways, she approached Circus Juventas and a collaboration began. Now open to all para- and tetraplegic students, this developing program continues to be collaborative in nature as students and coaches strive to find ways for the wheelchair-bound to fly!
Scholarship Program
Circus Juventas’ SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM offers assistance to students who have special financial circumstances that would otherwise prohibit them from participating in the CJ program.
Work-Study Program
Circus Juventas’ WORK-STUDY PROGRAM gives senior students the opportunity to clean and/or coach in exchange for discounted tuition.