It offers project-based after-school and summer programs in the arts, communications and leadership, sports and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

[11] Programs are offered in forms of apprenticeships and internships that cover areas such as science, sports, technology, college readiness skills, and communication.

Some include, West Town Bikes,[13] Forward Momentum,[14] 1871,[15] The Chicago Fire Foundation,[16] and Bank of America,[17] who further provide teenagers with programs.

[23] After School Matters and the USC Shoah Foundation partnered to create a program called "iWitness", which teaches leadership skills and in understanding public political discourse.

[24] Sports instruction, stadium management, health and wellness, and sports-related programs such as soccer and lifeguarding are offered via After School Matters.

[28] Every year After School Matters holds a gala to celebrate its members' accomplishments and collect funds to support its programs.

[34] Linda Wutton of WBEZ found that teenagers who were paid $5 an hour in 2009 would now make $1.10 due to pay cuts in the program despite an increase in After School Matter's budget.