(updated June 2026)
In March 2025, it was announced that Chicago Aikikai’s lease for 1444 W. Chicago Ave., our home since 2009, would not be renewed, and we had to vacate the premises by the end of June 2026. A search was then launched for a new space, as well as a building fund to support our move and future dojo build-out.
In Spring 2026, based on current rents and the state of available properties in target neighborhoods, we decided to sublease space for regular classes temporarily starting in July 2026 while continuing to fundraise and locate a suitable long-term location. Evening and weekend classes will be held northside at 3900 N. Elson Ave. (home of Choyokan Kendo Dojo) starting July 7, while morning classes will be held southside outdoors in Harold Washington Park (Hyde Park) starting July 1.
We are now aiming for a 2 to 3-year window, during which we will explore options such as space-sharing with other martial arts groups, or establishing a flex space that could be rented to outside parties on a one-time or short to long-term basis. We also intend to investigate applying for local development grants and other public funding to accomplish this.
THE KEVIN CHOATE SENSEI MEMORIAL BUILDING FUND
As mentioned above, Chicago Aikikai established a building fund in 2025 to offset the costs of relocating to and building out a new space. The Kevin Choate Sensei Memorial Building Fund is named after Kevin Choate (1953-2012), who served as Chief Instructor and Dojo-cho from 1981 until his passing in 2012, and was responsible for the dojo’s distinctive interior design during his tenure.
As of June 2026, we have raised $73,798.00. This includes direct contributions to the building fund, as well as donations made via seminar registrations, gifts from fellow dojo, Giving Tuesday campaigns, and dojo merchandise sales. We are sincerely grateful to all those who have contributed and thank you for your generosity.
Our original goal was $70,000.00. However, due to landlords seeking stronger financial guarantees and rising construction costs (reportedly up 6.2% in mid-2025), we have revised it to $150,000.00. This should help ensure a smooth transition between spaces.
PLEASE SUPPORT US
Change has been part of the dojo since it began informally in 1961 in a Lakeview basement on Clark Street, then moved across the street the following year as Illinois Aikido Club. It has since relocated to Uptown (Bryn Mawr, 15+ years), Rogers Park (Howard Street, 4 years – as Chicago Aikikai), Northcenter (Lincoln Avenue, 15 years), and West Town (Chicago Avenue, 17 years).
A new dojo presents challenges, but we are ready for it. We hope you can support us in our endeavors.
If you have not donated already, or would like to give further, click here to donate online. If you prefer to send a check, please contact us at info@chicagoaikikai.org for information and a mailing address. Chicago Aikikai is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation and all donations are tax deductible.
You can also support us by getting a T-shirt online from our Etsy store. Also stay tuned: we are working on repurposing the dojo’s old canvas mat covering into bags and other art pieces.
Chicago Aikikai T-shirts on Etsy
Chicago Aikikai Japanese calligraphy rocks
Chicago Aikikai canvas bags (work in progress)
Thank you.