After School Matters

After School Matters is a non-profit organization that provides Chicago Public Schools students with after-school and summer programs in arts, sports, technology, and leadership development. Founded by Maggie Daley in 1991, the organization has grown to serve over 18,000 students annually, with programs taking place in Chicago's community centers, parks, and schools. After School Matters partners with organizations such as the Chicago Park District, Chicago Public Library, and The Field Museum to offer a diverse range of programs. The organization is led by Mary Ellen Caron, who has worked with Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to expand after-school opportunities for Chicago's youth.

Introduction

After School Matters provides Chicago's teens with opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills, from visual arts and dance to computer programming and entrepreneurship. The organization's programs are designed to be engaging and challenging, with a focus on project-based learning and mentorship. After School Matters works with Chicago's top cultural institutions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and Steppenwolf Theatre Company, to provide students with unique learning experiences. The organization also partners with University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and DePaul University to offer students access to higher education resources and career guidance.

History

After School Matters was founded in 1991 by Maggie Daley, the wife of former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. The organization was established in response to the need for safe and engaging after-school activities for Chicago's teens. Over the years, After School Matters has grown and evolved, with a focus on providing high-quality programs that meet the changing needs of Chicago's youth. The organization has worked with Chicago's mayors, including Richard M. Daley, Rahm Emanuel, and Lori Lightfoot, to expand after-school opportunities and improve youth development outcomes. After School Matters has also partnered with Illinois's governors, including George Ryan, Rod Blagojevich, and J.B. Pritzker, to secure funding and support for after-school programs.

Programs and Activities

After School Matters offers a wide range of programs and activities, from arts and sports to technology and leadership development. The organization's programs are designed to be engaging and challenging, with a focus on project-based learning and mentorship. Students can participate in programs such as dance and theater at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, visual arts at the Museum of Contemporary Art, and computer programming at the University of Illinois at Chicago. After School Matters also offers programs in sports and fitness, including basketball and soccer at the United Center and Wrigley Field. The organization partners with Chicago's top cultural institutions, including the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium, to provide students with unique learning experiences.

Impact and Evaluation

After School Matters has a proven track record of success, with research showing that participants are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education. The organization's programs have also been shown to improve youth development outcomes, including self-esteem, confidence, and life skills. After School Matters works with researchers from University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and University of Illinois at Chicago to evaluate the effectiveness of its programs and identify areas for improvement. The organization also partners with Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services to track student outcomes and provide support to families and communities.

Funding and Partnerships

After School Matters is funded by a combination of public and private sources, including the City of Chicago, State of Illinois, and philanthropic organizations such as the MacArthur Foundation and Chicago Community Trust. The organization also partners with corporations such as Exelon, United Airlines, and Allstate to secure funding and support for its programs. After School Matters works with foundations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and W.K. Kellogg Foundation to support youth development initiatives and improve education outcomes. The organization also partners with non-profits such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and YMCA of the USA to provide after-school programs and youth services.

Awards and Recognition

After School Matters has received numerous awards and recognition for its work, including the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. The organization has also been recognized by Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker for its contributions to youth development and education in Chicago. After School Matters has partnered with awarding organizations such as the Golden Apple Foundation and Chicago Foundation for Women to recognize and support excellence in teaching and youth leadership. The organization has also been featured in media outlets such as the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, and WTTW for its innovative approaches to after-school programming and youth development. Category:Youth organizations