By now, most programming is moving along. There may be some bugs to iron out, schedules to adjust, and supplies to buy for the upcoming season. How are you orchestrating all of the parts of the program? Are there key staff that help make it happen? October is a time to step back and recognize the importance of the work we as the out-of-school time field are doing to support schools, families, and communities. 

Imagine a world where there were no lights on afterschool. Cafeterias that are now vibrant with laughter and excitement, dormant, dark, and silent. Basketball courts that helped build skills for one vs. one or teaches someone how to be part of a team, now overgrown with weeds and faded paint. The picture without afterschool and summer programs is bleak. Thankfully programs across the country open their doors every day to thousands of children and youth. You and your team are part of that movement, keeping the lights on every day. 

For the past 25 years, the Afterschool Alliance has spearheaded a national campaign called Lights on Afterschool to raise awareness about the importance of afterschool and summer programs in communities. With accompanying research briefs and materials, programs can host their own events to celebrate the work they do collectively, recognize staff that are changing lives and building relationships, and connect with community leaders and partners to help expand access to programs for children and families that are not able to. 

Lights on Afterschool is a time to look at program elements and successes that are often overlooked and taken for granted. What connections have made a difference in a family, may have shifted a trajectory, or opened opportunities that they never thought possible. That is the Power of Afterschool. With intention, together we can help reimagine how and when learning happens and demonstrate the proven impacts our programs have on those we serve. 

In our state, the Connecticut Network for Children and Youth host an Annual Celebration of the Field. This event allows programs to celebrate each other, recognize staff for their work, and take ideas back to their programs. Nationally, Lights on Afterschool is October 24th, 2024. Sign up to be recognized nationally for your event. More details and information here.