After School Matters Teen Programs

After School Matters Teen Programs offers out-of-school opportunities for teens across Chicago to connect, create, and thrive. The program includes access to spaces such as welding workshops, culinary kitchens, vocal rehearsal rooms, dance studios, design studios, art and dance studios, tech labs with 3D printers, and a rooftop garden.

• Ages: 14–18 years old
• Schedule: Summer programs run from June 22 - August 9.

After School Matters began in 1991 as a summer arts program and has grown into the nation’s largest provider of after-school and summer program opportunities for teens. For 35 years, After School Matters has been meeting the moment for Chicago teens and now supports nearly 20,000 teens each year with paid opportunities. By participating in an After School Matters program and successfully meeting the program requirements, teens earn a financial stipend. Teens receive a Gmail account from After School Matters 1–2 business days after they accept an offer to a program for the first time, and they can log into a Teen Dashboard to check their application status and see if they are on track to get paid.

These programs are supported by the City of Chicago, the Illinois State Board of Education, Chicago Public Schools, and other public and private donors. ASM teens have met with state representatives and senators in Springfield, Illinois, to discuss issues that matter most to them during a day of advocacy.

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

Last updated July 29, 2026.