After School Matters

After School Matters offers programs in Arts, Communication & Leadership, Sports, STEM, and skilled trades. Teens can earn a financial stipend for successful participation and completion. Most ASM programs serve Chicago high school teens ages 14-18, and teens must be 14 by Sept. 28, 2026.

Programs

• After School Matters programs — Chicago high school teens ages 14-18; most ASM programs serve teens ages 14-18; teens must be 14 by Sept 28, 2026 · Programs are offered in Arts, Communication & Leadership, Sports, STEM, and skilled trades. Teens can earn a financial stipend for successful participation and completion.

At a glance

• Ages: 14–18 years old
• Current session: Fall 2026 Programs (Sep 28–Dec 12, 2026)
• General schedule: Fall Programs run September 28 – December 12. Spring Session is late February – mid May; Summer Session is late June – early August; Fall Session is September 28 – December 12.

About the provider

After School Matters began in 1991 and has 35 years of history. Its mission is to provide out-of-school opportunities for teens across Chicago to connect, create, and thrive. ASM programs are offered across almost every Chicago neighborhood in schools, parks, community centers, libraries, and community organizations, and the organization supports nearly 20,000 teens across Chicago each year.

Applicants must be residents of the City of Chicago and attend a Chicago high school. Most programs serve teens ages 14-18. Some opportunities, such as Outreach Assistantships, require participants to be at least 16 years old and may have additional qualifications.

What families say

“Having a place like this makes you feel like you’re part of a community. My program is so fun and informative.” — ASM Teen

Last updated November 7, 2026.