Back in September, nearly 800 civic leaders turned out at Wintrust Arena for the annua After School Matters gala, themed “Building the Future." The night toasted a year of after-school and summer programming for Chicago teenagers. Sponsored by Chicago, the evening’s festivities included music and dance performances by After School Matters teens, as well as an exhibition of music, artwork, jewelry, tech, and athletics instruction by program participants. All proceeds went to After School Matters.
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After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and First Lady Amy Eshleman
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After School Matters staff and guest at Gala 2019
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ASM Dance Ensemble performs “Rescue” for guests at Gala 2019.
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Astronomy teens greet Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
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I.A.M. Music and Latin Dance teens perform “This Is Me” from the film The Greatest Showman.
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Les Enfantes and After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron
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Musical Theater teens perform a number from Ragtime.
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Richard Smith, After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron, After School Matters Board Chair Mellody Hodson, Peacemaker teen Jacarus, Peacemaker instructor Sprinng Stadeker and Peacemaker teen Jahkeith
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After School Matters Gala 2019 guests enjoy teen artwork during the cocktail hour.
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After School Matters teen shows Gala 2019 guest how to sew.
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First Lady Amy Eshleman listens to work created by After School Matters teens.
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Governor JB Pritzker speaks to After School Matters Gala 2019 guests.
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Mayor Lori Lightfoot speaks to After School Matters Gala 2019 guests.
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After School Matters Board Chair Mellody Hobson, Patrick Daley, Tara Daley, First Lady of Chicago Amy Eshleman, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and The Honorable Richard M. Daley
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Astronomy teen poses with board member Cara Johnson Hughes.
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Martin Nesbitt and Dr. Anita Blanchard
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Teen artwork on display at Gala 2019.
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ASM Dance Ensemble performs “Rescue” for guests at Gala 2019.
Photo: After School Matters -
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Latin Dance teens perform “This Is Me” from the film The Greatest Showman.
Photo: After School Matters