The After School Matters Annual Gala is our major annual fundraising event. The event is traditionally held at new and unique venues throughout Chicago. Past venues include Millennium Park, Soldier Field, U.S. Cellular Field, and O’Hare Airport’s new runway 9 Left/27 right. This year, After School Matters will return to Navy Pier for the 10th Annual Gala.

The main attractions of the Gala, however, are the talented teens who participate in our programs. Guests enjoy their spectacular talents throughout the evening: from the artwork and hors d'oeuvres featured in the reception gallery to the stellar on-stage performance and even the table centerpieces.

Funds raised by the After School Matters Annual Gala directly support the organization’s mission of creating a network of out-of-school opportunities, including apprenticeships and internships, for teens in underserved communities.

After School Matters teens from across Chicago come together every spring to showcase their talents in an extraordinary presentation of culinary, performing and visual arts at The Chicago Theatre, one of the city's most legendary venues.

Performances at the 2011 Citywide Showcase dazzled guests with a range of disciplines that included african drumming, vocal arts and hip hop dance.

In addition, the Citywide Showcase offers guests the opportunity to sample food prepared by teens in our culinary programs and view and purchase artwork created by teens from our visual arts programs.

Admission to the Citywide Showcase is free, but reservations are required.