After School Matters' Orleans Teen Center Opens Doors to Near North Youth

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North ·

Near North Side celebrated a significant addition to the community as Mayor Brandon Johnson joined After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron and other city officials for the grand opening of the Orleans Teen Center at 1065 N. Orleans. The mayor highlighted the center's importance during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, stating, "This new teen center is more than a building—it's a promise to our youth that their city believes in them. When young people are provided with opportunities and support outside of school they are better prepared for success as they progress through life."

The state-of-the-art facility, designed by Eckenhoff Saunders Architects, will serve up to 1,500 teens annually through diverse programs that pay participating students a stipend or hourly minimum wage while fostering independence and personal growth. The center features vibrant studios, a theater, gymnasium, STEM labs, and gathering spaces where teens can explore interests in arts, technology, trades, and leadership. Beyond serving local youth, the facility will function as a gathering hub for providers in the broader youth development field, enhancing programming quality throughout Chicago.

Funding for the $25.9 million renovation came from both private and public sources, including a recently announced

million grant from Bank of America, bringing After School Matters close to completing its $27 million capital campaign. "Bank of America shares ASM's commitment to investing in our youth through workforce and career initiatives, and we look forward to seeing the opportunities that will grow from the Orleans Teen Center," said Rita Cook, president of Bank of America Chicago. Near North residents interested in learning more about programs or supporting the center are encouraged to visit afterschoolmatters.org/locations/orleans/ for more information.

Sources:
1. https://chicago.urbanize.city/post/after-school-matters-orleans-teen-center-celebrates-ribbon-cutting
2. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bofa-awards-1-million-grant-to-after-school-matters-302629447.html