More than 275 guests laced up their best sneakers and stepped out in style for After School Matters’ Annual Sneaker Ball—an unforgettable night of energy, creativity, and impact. Together, attendees danced, connected, and raised more than $225,000 in support of the After School Matters Stipend Fund, the most ever raised at Sneaker Ball!
Held at the new After School Matters at Orleans Teen Center in the Cabrini community, the event also marked a special milestone—celebrating 35 years of ASM empowering young people across the city.
This year’s 90s-inspired theme paid tribute to the era when After School Matters was founded, bringing the nostalgia to life with throwback hits from DJ John Simmons and classic arcade games that kept guests entertained throughout the night.
The celebration kicked off with an electrifying performance by Asante Dance from the ASM at Gately Park facility in Roseland/Pullman, immediately setting the tone for an evening centered on teen talent. Associate Board Members Justin T. Hawkins and Abbi Van Hook welcomed guests with brief remarks, joined by ASM staff member and alum Mallory Zapata, thanking supporters for investing in opportunities that help teens thrive.
Music continued to fill the space as teens from the Upbeat Rock Band at the Michael and Karyn Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin took the stage, delivering a powerful performance of Nirvana that energized the crowd.
Throughout the evening, guests experienced the full breadth of After School Matters programs in action—from Basketball and Sports Fundamentals to Building Leather Bags and Sneakers, Entrepreneurship, and Creating With Scent. For many, it was their first time inside the Orleans Teen Center, offering a firsthand look at a space designed to inspire creativity, connection, and growth.
The night concluded with a celebration of style and community, as Keaton Bell was crowned Best Sneaker winner and raffle prizes were awarded—closing out an evening that highlighted not only incredible footwear, but the power of investing in Chicago’s teens.
“I had an absolutely fantastic time at this year’s ASM Sneaker Ball. It’s always a highlight of my year, but this year was different. I think the location at Orleans really changed the feel. It was great to be in a space that is meaningful to the teens. I loved being able to see the teens showcase their talents (which are vast), and I loved meeting new people…especially those for whom it was their first Sneaker Ball. A huge thanks to ASM, our event organizers, and all who supported this great event.” shared Justin T. Hawkins, ASM Associate Board Member.
Since 1991, ASM has connected hundreds of thousands of Chicago teens with safe, supportive, and enriching after-school and summer programs that build skills, confidence, and pathways to future success. Teens learn from industry-experienced instructors who often become long-term mentors, supporting both personal and academic growth.
Thank you to our Associate Board and all of our sponsors which include:
Presenting Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Chicago Is…, A Global DMC Partner
Valdivia Family Foundation
Bronze Sponsors
The Dolnick Family
Ginsberg Jacobs LLC
Stephen Grabo
Megan M. Ivers
Karyn Lutz
Rone Family
A very big thank you to our staff and all our guests who helped make this the most successful Sneaker Ball event to date!