How Increased Access Increases the Odds of a Bright Future at CTC

At Chicago Training Center (CTC), we believe something powerful: when you increase access, you increase opportunity — and when you increase opportunity, you expand the future.

For nearly 20 years, CTC has opened doors for Chicago youth who deserve consistent access to safe spaces, caring mentorship, and new experiences that help shape who they will become. As we’ve grown, one thing has become clear: expanding access—whether to equipment, coaching, transportation, or competitive experiences—directly expands a young person’s belief in what is possible.

Creating Access to a World Many Youth Never See

Rowing is not a sport most young people in Chicago encounter naturally. For many, the idea of being on the water, competing in regattas, or joining a nationally recognized athletic community can feel like something reserved for “other people.”

CTC exists to break that barrier.

We provide access to:

• A welcoming, supportive athletic community

• High-quality coaching and mentorship

• Safe, structured after-school and weekend activities

• Consistent practice opportunities

• Racing experiences at local and national regattas

• College exposure and scholarship pathways

• Transportation support for youth who need it

• A place to belong and grow emotionally, socially, and academically

This type of access is transformational. It shifts identities, builds confidence, and gives young people the ability to imagine a life they’ve never seen before.

When Access Increases, Commitment Follows

As CTC has expanded the resources and opportunities available to our athletes, we have seen a direct rise in:

• Attendance

• Retention

• Skill development

• Race readiness

• Leadership growth

One of our athletes entered the program struggling with attendance and managing overwhelming emotions. Today, with consistent access to coaching, structure, and supportive relationships, he’s one of our strongest and most focused rowers. His story isn’t the exception—it’s what happens when access meets potential.

Access Doesn’t Just Build Athletes — It Builds Futures

Expanded access leads to more than fast boats or gold medals. It leads to:

• Higher confidence

• Stronger social-emotional skills

• Better school engagement

• Friendships and positive peer circles

• Safety and supervision during high-risk hours

• Pathways to college and workforce success

• Mentorship that lasts well beyond high school

Every young person who walks through our program gains more than rowing skills—they gain life skills that carry them forward.

Expanding Access Is the Heart of Our Mission

For CTC, “access” isn’t a buzzword. It’s our blueprint for impact.

That’s why we are committed to:

• Increasing transportation options

• Growing year-round programming

• Providing all equipment at no cost to families

• Hiring and retaining experienced, caring coaches

• Expanding college exposure and travel opportunities

• Ensuring no youth is ever turned away due to financial limitations

• Strengthening community partnerships that create new pathways

The more access we provide, the more our youth can explore, discover, and succeed.

Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Chicago’s youth are brilliant, capable, and full of potential—but potential requires access to become reality.

When a young person gains access to opportunity, their whole world expands. They learn new strengths. They build new dreams. They begin to see themselves as leaders, scholars, and athletes.

Access is the spark that ignites a brighter future.

Join Us in Expanding Access Even Further

Supporting CTC isn’t just about funding a rowing program. It’s about investing in the next generation of Chicago leaders. It’s about ensuring every young person—regardless of zip code—has access to the tools, relationships, and experiences that shape futures.

And when access increases, the odds of a bright future do too.

Help us continue expanding access for Chicago youth. Together, we rise—one stroke at a time.