After School Matters Launches $14 Million Renovation of Facility near Cabrini-Green
A New Era for Teen Programming
After School Matters, a long-standing group that offers teen programming, began a $14 million renovation on a 36,000-square-foot facility near the former Cabrini-Green public housing development on the Near North Side. The organization, started by Maggie Daley, the late wife of former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, bought the building for $12.2 million in April.
A State-of-the-Art Facility
The facility, located at 1065 N. Orleans St., will offer a range of programming to 1,500 teens. The building will feature a commercial kitchen and a gymnasium, the first in an After School Matters facility. Once complete in late 2025, the facility will also include a black box theater, art studios, STEM labs, a skilled trades lab, outdoor spaces for urban gardening, and communal spaces for collaboration.
A Focus on Teen Feedback
The design of the building will be determined by discussions with After School Matters staff and board, along with the teens themselves. The organization asks what type of programs the teens want to see and uses their feedback in adding new courses, like artificial intelligence programming.
A Commitment to Growth
After School Matters long used city library and park district buildings before adding its own in 2017, and the addition of the new building is an encouraging signal of its growth. The organization is raising money to meet the projected $14 million price tag of the renovation. Between the purchase of the building and the renovation, the total cost of opening the new building is estimated to be around $27 million.
A New Chapter for After School Matters
The renovation is a significant investment for the organization, which enrolls up to 19,000 students in its fall, spring, and summer programming sessions. After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron said, “We know After School Matters teen-centric spaces work. Today, there is a greater need than ever for more safe, supportive, and responsive spaces where teens can learn, grow, and thrive.”
Conclusion
The renovation of the After School Matters facility is a testament to the organization’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for teens. With its state-of-the-art facilities and focus on teen feedback, the organization is poised for continued growth and success.
FAQs
Q: When will the renovation be complete?
A: The renovation is expected to be complete in late 2025.
Q: What kind of programming will be offered at the new facility?
A: The facility will offer a range of programming, including sports, cooking, art, and STEM courses, as well as a skilled trades lab and outdoor spaces for urban gardening.
Q: How many teens will the facility serve?
A: The facility will serve 1,500 teens.
Q: How much is the renovation costing?
A: The renovation is projected to cost $14 million.
Q: Will the organization be hiring new employees for the facility?
A: It’s too early to tell if the organization will be hiring new employees or using existing staff to staff the facility.
