New Resources Highlight the Importance of Investing in Afterschool Programs

New Resources Highlight the Importance of Investing in Afterschool Programs

Investing in afterschool programs is an investment in the future of our children, families, and communities. These programs support working families and help students develop skills, build confidence, and stay engaged in their education. To help you advocate for increased support and funding, we’re excited to share six newly released resources designed to educate policymakers, community leaders, and decision-makers about the critical value of afterschool programs. Explore the resources below to understand the impact of afterschool programs better and use them in your advocacy efforts:

Fact Sheet: Afterschool Programs Strengthen the Economy

This fact sheet breaks down how after-school programs contribute to stronger local economies. From supporting working families to saving businesses money and preparing the workforce of tomorrow, afterschool programs play a vital role in economic growth and stability.

Poll Results: Voters Say Afterschool Programs are a Necessity

Public support for afterschool programs has never been more substantial. Across political affiliations, geographic locations, and age groups, voters overwhelmingly agree that these programs are essential for students and communities. This data underscores the need to prioritize funding and access to after-school opportunities.

Issue Brief: How Afterschool Programs Build School-Day Engagement and Improve Attendance

Chronic absenteeism continues to hinder student success, particularly for historically marginalized students. This issue briefly highlights afterschool programs' role in combating absenteeism by fostering stronger school-day engagement and attendance.

Issue Brief: A Mix of Highs and Lows for Afterschool Program Providers

Afterschool providers are seeing some improvements, such as fewer staffing challenges, but they continue to face funding and sustainability issues. This brief shares the latest survey data and sheds light on areas where policymakers and communities can provide additional support to ensure the long-term success of these programs.

Issue Brief: 21st Century Community Learning Centers

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative remains the only federal funding source for before-school, after-school, and summer learning programs. This issue brief provides a comprehensive overview of the initiative, detailing its impact on student success and its challenges in securing sufficient funding.

Graphic: Afterschool Benefits Kids for Life

A compelling new graphic showcases findings from a 26-year longitudinal study, "Organized Afterschool Activities as a Developmental Context for Children and Adolescents," led by Deborah Vandell of the University of California, Irvine. The research confirms that afterschool programs have lasting benefits, helping children grow into strong learners, earners, and leaders.

Each of these resources underscores the importance of afterschool programs and their role in strengthening students, families, and communities. Now is the time to act, share these tools, and advocate for increased investment in these programs to ensure every child has access to the opportunities they deserve.

If you are not able to transform your program's impact into a compelling story, then let Steps To Achieves impact reports and highlight brochures showcase your programs' true value to students and stakeholders. Schedule time to learn more: https://stepstoachieve.com/schedule