What is ARCS?     |      Who is Eligible for ARCS?     |     Getting Started     |     Questions

 

What is ARCS? 

The Athletic Use, Resident, Contractor, and Service Provider (ARCS) program enables artists, artist organizations, community groups, organizations, and businesses to enter into a mutual agreement to provide mission-centered programs and services to the public on Park District property. 

Participation in the ARCS Program is open to organizations that meet the criteria listed in the ARCS Guidelines who are interested in utilizing Park District facilities on a regular basis.  Applications and required documentation must be submitted for review at least 60-90 days ahead of planned programming.

 

Who is eligible for ARCS? 

 

Athletic Use: Youth sport leagues and private schools seeking use of athletic space

Resident: Organizations seeking space to provide regular, ongoing programming that aligns with Chicago Park District’s mission

Contractor: Organizations or businesses seeking to provide fee-based programs that align with Chicago Park District’s mission

Service Provider: Organizations or businesses seeking to provide programs for park-driven programs and events for no fee for participants

All program proposals must align with the Chicago Park District’s mission and must not unnecessarily duplicate or compete with Chicago Park District programs. Partnerships must also be financially sustainable. 

Please carefully read the Guidelines for the ARCS program, available here, before proceeding to the application:  ARCS Guidelines


You may also review our Frequently Asked Questions:  FAQs

 

Government Agencies, Elected Officials, CPS, & PACs:  Complete the Activity Request Form for programs, practices or meetings at your local parks. Please turn in your completed Activity Request Form to your Park Supervisor.

 

Getting Started 

 

If you are ready to apply, complete these simple steps:

  1. Speak to the Park Supervisor(s) at the Park(s) where you are interested in conducting your programs.
     
  2. Complete the Partnership Proposal Form 

    For best results, complete the form in Adobe Acrobat Reader. 
     
  3. E-mail Partnership Proposal Form, supporting documents, and Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming Chicago Park District (4830 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60609) as an additional insured to partnerships.app@chicagoparkdistrict.com.

 

Questions? 

 

Contact New Business Development at partnerships.app@chicagoparkdistrict.com or call (312) 742-0909.

Uncertain if your program fits into ARCS? Looking to partner in other ways? Learn about the following: