Chicago Out-of-School Time Landscape Study
Out-of-school-time (OST) programming plays a critical role in promoting positive youth development and strengthening communities. These programs can provide a supportive space for young people to explore areas of interest and connect with peers, mentors, and community members, fostering stronger social networks and a sense of belonging.
With a dynamic OST space in Chicago and Illinois more broadly, a great opportunity exists to build on prior efforts to create a connected and cohesive OST system. A critical first step is systematically examining the current OST landscape, as an OST landscape scan can provide vital information about current strengths, opportunities, and pain points that can be addressed through policy and practice.
Learning More About Policy, Funding, and System Priorities
In 2025, AIR partnered with the Steans Family Foundation to conduct a landscape study of OST policy, funding, and system priorities in Chicago with a focus on the North Lawndale neighborhood and attention to how the city is situated within the broader Illinois context. The purpose of this work was to inform planning considerations for a more integrated OST system that elevates the strengths of young people and families and supports strong and vibrant communities.
During a six-month period, we engaged leaders, youth, families, funders, and policymakers from 29 organizations and we reviewed more than 250 data sources and documents. As an end product of this work, we share a report detailing OST policies, funding, and needs in Chicago.
