About the Report
Space to Grow, a green schoolyards program co-founded by Healthy Schools Campaign and Openlands, has spent the past decade transforming Chicago schoolyards into climate-resilient, green spaces that promote outdoor learning, health, and community engagement. This new report celebrates the program’s 10th anniversary and highlights its success and impact over the past ten years.
Key Impacts
Over the course of 10 years, Space to Grow has expanded to 36 schoolyards, benefiting over 36,000 students and community members, with more schoolyards currently in design. The report emphasizes the program’s impact on:
- Equity: Investing in historically disinvested neighborhoods and co-designing schoolyards that meet the unique needs and aspirations of the communities they serve
- Climate Resilience: Mitigating flooding and enhancing environmental sustainability
- Health & Wellness: Creating opportunities for physical activity and mental health
Collaborative Success
This report highlights the unique partnership between public agencies and nonprofit organizations that have made Space to Grow a model of cross-sector collaboration. By bringing together leadership, expertise, and resources, the program has created sustainable, community-driven spaces.