After School Matters empowers Chicago’s teens.

After School Matters inspires Chicago’s teens to discover their passions, develop skills for life beyond high school, and make friends along the way.

Spring Programs: Application Now Open

Apply to Spring Programs Today!

Spring Programs run February 24 -May 10.

Each ASM program opportunity allows YOU to:

  • Learn new skills, techniques, and strategies
  • Work with talented community leaders and network
  • Earn money for your participation

About After School Matters

In 2024:

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After School Matters provides out-of-school opportunities for teens across Chicago to connect, create, and thrive.

Support Us

Join our community of supporters and directly impact the lives of Chicago teens.

Shop unique and creative items made by Chicago teens participating in our after-school and summer programs.

Our Programs

Empowering Chicago teens to shape their future.

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Arts

Performing, visual, and culinary arts
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Communication & Leadership

Business, journalism, marketing and media
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Sports

Sports instruction, stadium management, health and wellness
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STEM

Applied and natural science, audio/visual, industrial and information technology

I really love how empowered our instructor makes us feel. She reminds us that we are all capable of reaching our dreams, that our mistakes don’t define us, and that what’s deep down is what makes us special.

Thalia, ASM teen

Kreative Krew Kreating You program

Film production is the field that I want to go into in the future so being in a program with like-minded people is a very fun learning experience.

Jeremey, ASM teen

Advanced Video Production program

News & Events

Blog Post

Finding Hope Through Music: After School Matters and Guitars Over Guns are Empowering Chicago Teens 

When ASM teen, Brandon, was a freshman at Kenwood Academy, he admits he wasn’t on the best path. Everything changed when he joined a songwriting...

Upcoming Event

After School Matters Gala 2026

Thursday, September 24, 2026
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Obama Presidential Center Home Court
Join us at the Obama Presidential Center for an evening of teen showcases, fabulous food and drinks, and networking as we celebrate our 35th anniversary of investing in Chicago teens.

Our Alumni

Stay connected with us, share your story, and access resources and opportunities through the After School Matters Alumni Network!

“After School Matters gives teens a reason to be excited and want to learn more. I love ASM and all the programs I have been in, they have truly changed me as a person and have helped open up so many doors for me to continue in my career and my college studies.”

Janessa Tyler, ASM Alum
 

Give us a follow @afterschoolmatters to stay up-to-date on all things After School Matters. You might even see yourself or your program featured!