After School Matters

After School Matters offers Chicago high school teens ages 14-18 the chance to explore careers and industries through career-related content areas and paid opportunities. It also offers programs in which teens build confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills.

Programs

• Career Exploration — Chicago high school teens ages 14-18; teens must be 14 by Sept 28, 2026 · After School Matters offers programs where teens can explore careers and industries; examples include opportunities in career-related content areas and paid opportunities.
• Leadership — Chicago high school teens ages 14-18; teens must be 14 by Sept 28, 2026 · Programs build confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills; some opportunities are in the Communications & Leadership content area.

At a glance

• Ages: 14–18 years old
• Current session: Fall Session (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.

About the provider

After School Matters began in 1991 as a summer arts program and is celebrating 35 years. The organization provides out-of-school opportunities for teens across Chicago to connect, create, and thrive, and it connects Chicago teens with paid opportunities to explore their interests, build real-world skills, make new friends, and prepare for their future.

Most ASM programs serve teens ages 14-18. Teens must be 14 by Sept 28, 2026. Some opportunities, such as Outreach Assistantships, require participants to be at least 16-years-old and may have additional qualifications. Most programs require an in-person interview. Programs are offered throughout Chicago at ASM buildings and community locations.

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 6, 2026.