Today, October 23rd, 2014, marks the 15th Annual Lights on Afterschool Celebration. This event is organized annually by the Afterschool Alliance, which is a national organization that promotes and advocates for afterschool programming for all children. As a part of this event, communities come together to host performances, showcase innovative programming, and tout the academic, social, and emotional benefits these critical programs provide. This year there are over 8000 such events across the country. In Connecticut, Governor Malloy has issued the following proclamation:

“Whereas, the citizens of the State of Connecticut value quality afterschool programs and opportunities because they provide a safe learning environment, support working families, and build stronger communities; and

Whereas, more than 28 million children in the United States have parents who work outside the home and 15.1 million children have no place to go after school; and

Whereas, the State of Connecticut is committed to investing in the safety and well-being of all young people by providing expanded learning opportunities that will help close the achievement gap and prepare young people to become successful adults; and

Whereas, Lights on Afterschool, the national celebration of afterschool programs help this year on October 23, 2014, promotes the importance of quality afterschool programs in the lives of children, families, and communities; now

Therefore, I, Dannel P. Malloy, Governor of the State of Connecticut, do hereby proclaim October 23, 2014, as Lights on Afterschool Day in the State of Connecticut. I urge all our citizens to join me in assuring that every Connecticut child has access to a safe, friendly place where the lights are on after school.”

More information on the Annual Lights on Afterschool Event can be found at www.afterschoolalliance.org