Advocacy Day at State Capitol Unites Over 200 for Afterschool Funding
On June 4, 2025, the Pennsylvania State Capitol became a vibrant hub of support for afterschool programs as over 200 individuals, including more than 100 students, gathered for the 2025 Afterschool Advocacy Day. The event was a significant display of commitment from educators, program professionals, community leaders, and legislators emphasizing the critical need for quality afterschool programs in the state.
During this advocacy day, voices from various backgrounds united to express appreciation to the General Assembly for last year’s passing of the Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) legislation, which allocated $11.5 million for afterschool initiatives. Enthusiastic support was also extended towards Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposal for a further $10 million increase in funding for the upcoming 2025–2026 fiscal year. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the role afterschool programs play in promoting the well-being and development of children in the Commonwealth.
Diverse speakers included notable figures such as Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver and Senator Christine M. Tartaglione, alongside energetic youth representatives who shared personal testimonials of how such programs have impacted their lives positively. For instance, Vicky D., an Afterschool Impact Award winner, spoke about the mentorship opportunities and community ties she has developed through her participation, highlighting the transformative power these programs hold in shaping young lives. Another youth speaker, Cameron Jones from the Youth Enrichment Services in Pittsburgh, illustrated similar sentiments, cementing the narrative that quality afterschool experiences can profoundly influence children’s growth.
At the event, various stakeholders including Nathan Brant, CEO of The Pennsylvania State Alliance of YMCAs, asserted the necessity for sustainable funding dedicated to youth enrichment services. Contrell Armor, director of PSAYDN (Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network), articulated the urgent need for continuous support for students during out-of-school hours. "These high-quality programs not only offer enriching experiences but also provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their children are engaged in constructive activities while they are away," he stated passionately.
Senator Culver emphasized the importance of equitable access, noting that afterschool programs help bridge opportunity gaps and foster an environment where all students can thrive, regardless of their background or zip code. Senator Tartaglione further echoed this sentiment, stressing the collective responsibility to ensure every child has a safe and enriching space to learn and grow after school.
The event culminated in Governor Shapiro’s official proclamation declaring June 4 as Afterschool Advocacy Day across Pennsylvania, encouraging individuals and communities statewide to support afterschool initiatives aimed at fostering the holistic development of children. With a coalition of over 3,000 members, recognized OST providers, and numerous partners, PSAYDN continues to champion programs that enhance the quality of afterschool experiences for youth, ultimately striving for improved outcomes for families and communities statewide.
Through combined efforts, the movement to secure sustainable funding for these essential programs is gaining momentum, highlighting the critical role they play in shaping the future of Pennsylvania’s youth. As the advocacy efforts move forward, the shared vision remains clear: to ensure every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the transformative opportunities that quality afterschool programs offer.
During this advocacy day, voices from various backgrounds united to express appreciation to the General Assembly for last year’s passing of the Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) legislation, which allocated $11.5 million for afterschool initiatives. Enthusiastic support was also extended towards Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposal for a further $10 million increase in funding for the upcoming 2025–2026 fiscal year. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the role afterschool programs play in promoting the well-being and development of children in the Commonwealth.
Diverse speakers included notable figures such as Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver and Senator Christine M. Tartaglione, alongside energetic youth representatives who shared personal testimonials of how such programs have impacted their lives positively. For instance, Vicky D., an Afterschool Impact Award winner, spoke about the mentorship opportunities and community ties she has developed through her participation, highlighting the transformative power these programs hold in shaping young lives. Another youth speaker, Cameron Jones from the Youth Enrichment Services in Pittsburgh, illustrated similar sentiments, cementing the narrative that quality afterschool experiences can profoundly influence children’s growth.
At the event, various stakeholders including Nathan Brant, CEO of The Pennsylvania State Alliance of YMCAs, asserted the necessity for sustainable funding dedicated to youth enrichment services. Contrell Armor, director of PSAYDN (Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network), articulated the urgent need for continuous support for students during out-of-school hours. "These high-quality programs not only offer enriching experiences but also provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their children are engaged in constructive activities while they are away," he stated passionately.
Senator Culver emphasized the importance of equitable access, noting that afterschool programs help bridge opportunity gaps and foster an environment where all students can thrive, regardless of their background or zip code. Senator Tartaglione further echoed this sentiment, stressing the collective responsibility to ensure every child has a safe and enriching space to learn and grow after school.
The event culminated in Governor Shapiro’s official proclamation declaring June 4 as Afterschool Advocacy Day across Pennsylvania, encouraging individuals and communities statewide to support afterschool initiatives aimed at fostering the holistic development of children. With a coalition of over 3,000 members, recognized OST providers, and numerous partners, PSAYDN continues to champion programs that enhance the quality of afterschool experiences for youth, ultimately striving for improved outcomes for families and communities statewide.
Through combined efforts, the movement to secure sustainable funding for these essential programs is gaining momentum, highlighting the critical role they play in shaping the future of Pennsylvania’s youth. As the advocacy efforts move forward, the shared vision remains clear: to ensure every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the transformative opportunities that quality afterschool programs offer.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.