This summer, After School Matters teens had experiences that soared above and beyond — thanks to our partnership with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA).
Behind the Scenes at O’Hare
Our Bessie Coleman Aviation All-Star Interns got an unforgettable, behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced world of aviation during a special career day at O’Hare International Airport. Led by the CDA team, teens explored aircraft service areas, toured runway systems, and even drove along active runways — getting up close as planes took off just feet away.
Instructor Derrick Henry shared how inspiring it was to watch teens make real-world connections between what they’re learning in the classroom and the exciting careers available in aviation. “Seeing them ask thoughtful questions and experience aviation in action was incredible,” he said.
This experience didn’t just teach them about how one of the world’s busiest airports operates — it sparked curiosity, expanded career dreams, and showed them that a future in aviation is within reach.
Dancing Through the Terminals
The CDA partnership also gave teens in our Latin Dance program at the Lutz Center a stage like no other: the bustling terminals of O’Hare and Midway airports.
Travelers waiting for their flights were treated to vibrant performances featuring a medley of Latin dance and house-inspired choreography, celebrating the cultural rhythms and neighborhoods of Chicago. These performances brought energy, joy, and artistry to thousands of passengers — while giving our teens a chance to showcase their skills and creativity.
A Shared Vision for Chicago Teens
Partnerships like this demonstrate what’s possible when organizations come together to invest in young people. CDA’s commitment to providing hands-on opportunities — whether through career exploration or artistic expression — helps teens build confidence, discover their passions, and envision bright futures.
We know that when teens are given spaces to dream big and share their talents, the entire city benefits. Thank you to the CDA team for opening doors, creating experiences, and showing our teens that the sky isn’t the limit — it’s just the beginning.