About Us

After School Matters is a nonprofit organization that supports up to 19,000 teens across Chicago each year with paid opportunities to develop their talents while gaining critical skills for work, college, and beyond. Our programs introduce young people to new ideas, places, and people and encourage them to explore their interests as they learn about who they are and who they want to become.

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Stay connected on the latest ASM news, upcoming events, teen highlights, and more.

Our History

After School Matters began in 1991 as a summer arts program and has served more than 400,000 Chicago teens in programs in the arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM. Learn more about our meaningful milestones.

Our Locations

ASM programs are offered across almost every Chicago neighborhood in schools, parks, community centers, libraries, and community organizations.

Our three ASM buildings, The Michael and Karyn Lutz Center for After School Matters, Gallery 37 for the Arts, and After School Matters at Gately Park are designed specifically for Chicago teens.

Our Impact and Research

Our approach to youth development empowers teens to learn new skills and create a future they are excited about. Learn more about how ASM impacts Chicago teens, communities, instructors, and the youth development space.

Meet Our Leadership
Team

Thanks to the dedication of our Leadership team and our staff, After School Matters has become a national model for out-of-school time programming.

Meet Our Board Members

Our three volunteer boards are comprised of corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, community partners, civic leaders, and cultural icons who dedicate their time and efforts to ensuring all teens in Chicago have the opportunity to shape their future. 

Reports

Learn more about our annual and financial reports.

Support Our Work