CONNECTING KIDS ACROSS CLASSROOMS, COMMUNITIES, AND TIME.

Once Upon Our Time Capsule transforms the traditional time capsule into a powerful tool for youth connection and reflection. We unite students across classrooms and communities to create collective time capsules, preserving today's voices for tomorrow. By reflecting on, documenting, and sharing stories for the time capsule, participants build confidence and connection - vital for youth success.

Join us for a special evening of drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and celebration on MAY 20, 2025 as we launch the 2025 Time Capsule and share how Once Upon Our Time Capsule is helping youth across Chicago and beyond build community, confidence, and resilience.

2025 Time capsule launch party

How THE TIME CAPSULE works

  • Every June, we launch a new annual Youth Time Capsule (our digital platform for youth stories) and a supporting arts-infused curriculum to engage youth in reflection and dialog.

  • In schools, after school programs, homeless shelters, and more, youth contribute artifacts into the platform capturing their meaningful moments, experiences, and perspectives, and explore submissions from peers.

  • At the end of the school year in May, the annual Youth Time Capsule is closed for 10 years. With each new Youth Time Capsule, we are working toward building the largest digital record of youth stories.

impact WE ARE MAKING

By reimagining the time capsule for today's youth, we invite them to explore their past, understand the present, and dream about the future. Our time capsule is digital, providing an updated take on an old tradition. Supported by a dynamic curriculum which can be deployed in a variety of settings, we encourage kids to share their unique stories with each other and the world.

  • Through the process of contributing to the Youth Time Capsule, youth reflect on their personal growth and achievements, their values, and their communities. They articulate their experiences, perspectives, and dreams through writing, art, and digital media. Along the way, they build their sense of self-worth.

    Research consistently shows that individuals with higher levels of self-worth are more resilient to stress, less likely to develop mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and more likely to engage in healthy behaviors.

  • Research shows that when children feel socially connected to and accepted by others, they experience better physical and mental well-being and they even perform better in school. Once Upon Our Time Capsule fosters a sense of belonging by valuing diversity, encouraging connection, and empowering youth to be their authentic selves within the community.

OUR Partners

We partner with schools, after school programs, and government agencies to bring our programming to youth in a variety of settings. Reach out to us at hello@ourtimecapsule.org with ways you want to partner.

WHAT Teachers ARE SAYING

  • " I see some of the most shy students begin to open up and show bravery by participating and sharing their ideas with the whole class. Students have the opportunity to show off their true authentic selves, helping them build their confidence. The attendance for the program is also one of the highest for after school, which highlights how engaging the program is for our students. I am grateful for the commitment Once Upon Our Time Capsule offers in partnering with us to provide support to the well being of our students.”

    Mary Hayes, Chicago Public School teacher

  • “Students need more opportunities to use their imagination and to connect socially without the use of electronics. The program provides a space for students to do just that-- to be kids.”

    Anonymous Survey, public school teacher

  • “Our youth benefited so much. It really gave them a chance to reflect on their own identity, their own culture, and what makes them special and unique. What was really amazing was that they got to share that side of themselves with their peers and with their class.”

    Anonymous Survey, public school teacher

  • “Through their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to inclusivity, Once Upon has created a space where every child feels valued, heard, and empowered. Their dedication to promoting equitable opportunities for connection and personal development aligns closely with our organization’s core values.”

    Anonymous Survey, public school teacher

  • "The program was amazing... Our students benefited so much. It really gave them a chance to reflect on their own identity, their own culture, and what makes them special and unique. What was really amazing was that they got to share that side of themselves with their peers and with their class. I can't say enough wonderful things about the program."

    -Monica Balesh, Counselor, Philip D. Armour Elementary School, a Chicago Public School

NBC NIGHtly neWS FEATURE

thanks to our supporters