As we look forward to another great year of serving Chicago teens, we want to say THANK YOU to all who helped to make 2024 an unforgettable year! Let’s look back at the moments and milestones that made 2024 a true celebration of the strength and creativity that define our teens.
Teen Spotlight: Jade P.
Meet Jade, a teen in our Astronomy & Space program, whose journalism piece about her ASM instructor won a National Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Gold Medal and an American Voices Medal. Out of 300,000+ submissions, Jade’s work stood out for its originality and personal voice. We couldn’t be prouder of her achievement!
“I never imagined my words would touch so many people, but you truly never know until you try,” shared Jade.
ASMU College Visits
In 2024, ASMU teens explored their future possibilities through college visits to six university campuses. These visits included campus tours, insights into programs and scholarships, and a glimpse into college life. We’re honored to provide these hands-on experiences that show our teens what’s possible.
- Grainger College of Engineering @ University of Illinois-Champaign
- University of Illinois -Springfield
- National Louis University
- Purdue University
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
Events
Sneaker Ball
Our Associate Board knocked it out of the park in April, raising over $150,000 for ASM’s Teen Stipend Fund at this annual fundraiser. The event highlighted community spirit, amazing food, live performances, and incredible support for Chicago teens.
Gala
Our annual Gala brought together supporters from across Chicago to raise nearly $2.6 million for ASM programs. From inspiring teen performances to heartfelt speeches by our CEO Mary Ellen Caron and Board Chair Mellody Hobson, it was an evening to remember.
Expanding Our Reach
The Lutz Family Annex Opens
In April, we opened our new 2,000-square-foot Lutz Family Annex in Belmont Cragin. This exciting addition to our Michael and Karyn Lutz Center offers programs in welding, bike repair, and urban gardening, giving teens hands-on opportunities to learn and grow.
Breaking Ground on a new ASM space in Cabrini
This fall we broke ground on our new teen-focused center at 1065 N. Orleans! Stay tuned for updates as we create a new 36,00 square-foot space for creativity, learning, and opportunities for Chicago’s young people.
ASM in the News
We received some great media coverage in 2024, including these two of our favorite stories of the year:
- CBS Chicago spotlighted longtime ASM HHW instructor Daniel Henry and his commitment to inspiring the next generation of singers, musicians, and artists in Chicago.
- Chicago Sun-Times featured the mural created by Related Affordable Foundation, Related Midwest, ASM’s Advanced Visual Arts Instructor Erick “Roho” Garcia, and his teens in the South Shore community.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Our Spring session starts on February 24! Encourage a Chicago teen you know to apply! With hundreds of programs citywide, there’s something for everyone—and yes, teens get paid to participate.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to a phenomenal 2025 filled with opportunity, growth, and inspiration for Chicago teens!