#USA #New York #Clear Channel #Afterschool Alliance #Lights On Afterschool

A Nationwide Campaign to Spotlight Afterschool Programs

This October, nearly 2,000 digital billboards across the United States will shine a spotlight on the critical role afterschool programs play in nurturing students. The initiative is part of the 26th Annual Lights On Afterschool, organized by the Afterschool Alliance, in collaboration with key organizations such as the National League of Cities and the National Summer Learning Association.

The campaign is set to launch on October 23rd, aiming to emphasize how afterschool programs offer safe environments for children, enriching their learning even after the school day concludes. These programs are known not only for providing academic support, such as homework assistance but also for fostering interests in areas like computer programming, robotics, and the arts, thereby equipping students with vital life skills.

As the only national rally dedicated to afterschool initiatives, Lights On Afterschool brings together communities across the country to celebrate their efforts. This year, thousands of programs are organizing events throughout October, culminating in a unified effort to showcase the benefits these programs provide students, families, and the wider community.

Data from a 2022 survey revealed that approximately half of the parents whose children are not enrolled in afterschool programs would choose to do so if available options existed. This statistic underscores the high demand for these programs and highlights the crucial support they offer to families, particularly working parents. The afterschool landscape strongly correlates with improvements in academic performance, school attendance, and overall student engagement.

The evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that participation in afterschool programs correlates with increased enthusiasm for learning, better grades, and enhanced life skills, such as teamwork and effective communication. Children involved in afterschool activities express greater excitement about their educational experiences, indicating the positive impact these programs have on their overall development.

To amplify the importance of afterschool initiatives, Clear Channel Outdoor is generously providing billboard space in 25 markets to showcase messages supporting afterschool advocacy. Notably, on October 23rd, Clear Channel plans to feature significant displays at prominent locations, including Times Square in New York City and South Street Station in Boston. Such high-visibility advertising will further underscore the importance of afterschool programs and encourage broader community participation.

Jodi Grant, Executive Director of the Afterschool Alliance, acknowledged the invaluable support provided by Clear Channel and the immense visibility the campaign brings. She stated, “The afterschool community is enormously grateful for the visibility Clear Channel Outdoor provides each year, which shines a spotlight on the many ways afterschool programs help our country's students reach their potential.”

This year's Lights On Afterschool initiative expects around 8,000 events across various organizations, including schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and community centers. The collective efforts aim to not only celebrate the achievements and skills students acquire in afterschool programs but also advocate for the necessity of expanding access to these critical services nationwide.

As we navigate through October, the Lights On Afterschool campaign is a clarion call to action for communities to recognize and invest in the future generation. It highlights that by providing children with a safe and engaging space after school, we are not only enriching their learning experiences but also strengthening families and communities.

For further information about afterschool programs and the guidelines for getting involved, individuals can visit the Afterschool Alliance website at www.afterschoolalliance.org. The concerted effort between organizations and communities reinforces the belief that quality afterschool programs are essential for nurturing well-rounded children who are prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.