NASCAR and After School Matters Team Up for a Third Year
For the past three years, After School Matters has been proud to partner with NASCAR as they’ve taken over the streets of Chicago. Since 2023, hundreds of ASM teens have contributed to the excitement, designing original artwork for the event, performing live during race weekend, and participating in behind-the-scenes immersion days that offer a firsthand look at how the races come together.
From the vibrant 200-foot scrim featuring teen-designed race cars speeding through the cityscape, to teen DJs and dancers energizing crowds during race weekend—this partnership has been more than creative; it’s been transformational.
“My teens were so excited to see their mural on display downtown during the NASCAR race,” said Erick “Roho” Garcia, ASM Advanced Drawing and Painting Instructor. “It made them feel seen and showed them that their art—and their voice—matters. Partnerships like this open doors and help our teens see what’s achievable for their future.”
For many teens, opportunities like this offer their first exposure to careers in event production, design, marketing, catering, security, and more. Through immersion days with NASCAR staff, teens gain insight into the wide range of roles it takes to bring a national event to life—opening their eyes to professional paths they may not have known were possible.
At ASM, we believe in the power of partnerships to help teens explore their passions and turn them into careers. Collaborating with organizations like NASCAR gives young people real-world experiences to build their skills, gain confidence, and imagine bold futures for themselves.
NASCAR’s ongoing commitment to Chicago and its youth is an example of what’s feasible when corporate and community partners come together to invest in the next generation. Together, we’re not just creating art or putting on a show—we’re helping teens see realize their potential and where their dreams can take them.