April 22, 2025

It’s Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week! 

This week, we’re celebrating the dedicated individuals who make a difference every day after the school bell rings—the afterschool and summer program staff who inspire, uplift and support our youth. 

Their impact is undeniable—and so is the need to sustain it. Federal funding plays a key role in keeping these life-changing programs open and accessible. Now is the time to speak up. 

Click below and tell Congress why afterschool matters to you and how the programs, the professionals and the youth they serve are vital to your community.

Your voice can help: 
•    Keep kids safe and engaged.
•    Support working families.
•    Strengthen the out-of-school-time workforce.

Amplifying Afterschool Voices: Advocacy Strategies for Impact

April 25, 10 - 11 a.m. | Virtual

Join us for this dynamic workshop designed to empower participants with the knowledge, tools and confidence to become effective advocates for afterschool programs in their communities and beyond. This session will focus on increasing awareness of the critical role afterschool programs play in supporting children, families and communities, while highlighting their broad social and educational benefits. Participants will learn how to communicate the value of these programs with clarity and impact, tailoring their messages to resonate with key stakeholders including parents, policymakers and funders. In addition, the session will provide practical strategies for policy engagement, equipping attendees with actionable steps to influence public policy and advocate for sustainable funding and support for expanded learning opportunities.

2025 Afterschool Advocacy Day

June 4, 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Pennsylvania State Capitol, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Join us to educate and advocate for the importance of out-of-school time opportunities in Pennsylvania! Parents, program providers, youth, educators, faith-based leaders, and community and business leaders from across the state will unite at The Pennsylvania Capitol to engage with legislators.

You will receive a Zoom link to participate in Advocacy Day training when you register:

• Wednesday, May 14, 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. (adults and staff)
• Wednesday, May 21, 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. (students)

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