Exciting news for Chicago teens! We have officially kicked off the renovation of a brand-new 36,000-square-foot programming facility in the Cabrini neighborhood. This teen-focused space, located at 1065 North Orleans Avenue, is set to become a center for creativity, learning, and opportunity for thousands of young people across the city. Check out ABC7 Chicago’s coverage of the event here.
We purchased the building in April, and last Saturday celebrated the next step with a groundbreaking ceremony to commemorate the exciting moment. The event, held inside the building’s gymnasium, brought together some of Illinois’ and Chicago’s most prominent leaders, including Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Walter Burnett, ASM’s CEO Mary Ellen Caron, and Board Member Langdon Neal. Afi, a talented ASM teen, did a wonderful job closing out the speaking program before it was time to break ground. Everyone shared their excitement about the future impact of this space on Chicago’s teens.
“As a former teacher, I recognize the transformative impact that facilities like this have on young people’s development,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Equipped with resources such as STEM labs, a culinary kitchen, and a black box theater, this new center will provide Chicago’s teens with invaluable opportunities to cultivate skills, foster collaboration, and build a promising future in the Cabrini neighborhood.”
This building, which is scheduled to open in late 2025, will feature state-of-the-art resources to support a wide variety of teen programming. Among the highlights are a black box theater, a gymnasium (the first of its kind for ASM), a culinary kitchen, STEM and art studios, a skilled trades lab, an innovation lab, outdoor spaces for urban gardening, and communal spaces for collaboration and connection.
Teen artwork is already on display in the Hill Street windows of the building. Designed by ASM’s Digital Visionaries teens last spring, it showcases their representation of what ASM offers young people.
“After School Matters is all about the teens. So, what could be better than showing off what goes on in our heads? My work shows off all of the different capabilities and possibilities that teens can have. It showcases Art, Technical and Botanical skills, Theater programs, and STEM. Teens have a near infinite possibility when it comes to the future, and there is no better way to showcase that than with art,” said teen artist Oliver K.
Supporting Chicago’s Teens, One Space at a Time
This new Cabrini facility will add to the organization’s growing number of teen-dedicated spaces, joining other locations like Gallery37 Center for the Arts in the Loop, the Michael and Karen Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin, and Gately Park in Pullman/Roseland.
As construction begins, the excitement is already building among teens and community members alike. The new facility will serve approximately 1,500 teens each year, creating a welcoming, innovative place designed specifically for them.
“For over 30 years, After School Matters has demonstrated its commitment to Chicago’s youth. It has proven to be a lifeline for our kids that helps provide a pathway to success in life,” said 27th Alderman Walter Burnett, Jr, vice mayor of the City of Chicago. “This new facility will allow After School Matters to expand their programming and reach more teens throughout the city. I look forward to continuing to work with After School Matters as they help provide new opportunities for kids to learn, grow, and develop skills that will benefit them as adults.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of ASM in Cabrini
“We know After School Matters’ teen-centric spaces work,” shared ASM CEO Mary Ellen Caron. “Now, more than ever, teens need safe, supportive environments where they can thrive. This building will provide just that—a place where they can come together, learn new skills, and feel a sense of belonging.”
This latest project is a testament to our commitment to Chicago’s teens. By investing in spaces where young people can learn and grow, ASM is ensuring a brighter future for the city. Keep an eye out for more updates as the renovation progresses—we can’t wait to see this vibrant, teen-focused space come to life next year!
