Alexis Rivas of Think Together Recognized as Next Generation Afterschool Leader by NAA

Recognizing Future Leaders in Afterschool Programs

In an inspiring celebration of innovation and dedication in education, the National Afterschool Association (NAA) has announced that Alexis Rivas, a Family and Community Engagement Coordinator at Think Together, has received recognition as one of the NAA's 2025 Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders. This recognition stems from her notable contributions to afterschool programs, which play a critical role in shaping the lives of young students.

A Step Towards Educational Excellence

Think Together, a prominent nonprofit organization in California, has been at the forefront of providing afterschool and expanded learning programs. Since its inception, it has worked tirelessly to ensure that students from various backgrounds receive access to quality educational resources and support. Alexis Rivas joined the organization in 2023, focusing on empowering families in the San Bernardino Region. Her role primarily involves identifying and allocating resources that would facilitate better educational outcomes for children.

Impact in the Community

Alexis has made significant strides in her position, proving to be an invaluable asset to the Think Together family. Her engagement with families has been transformative; she has successfully implemented outreach initiatives that improve student attendance and participation in programs. Speaking highly of her efforts, Alberto Barajas, the Executive Director of Programs for San Bernardino West and East, highlighted how Alexis’s leadership has been paramount in fostering connections between the community and the educational system.

Recognizing the power of community, Rivas emphasizes that collaboration is essential to drive positive change. Her initiatives have resulted in the distribution of approximately 8,000 family resource flyers throughout the Think Together regions in 2024, informing families about events and resources available to them. This outreach has not only increased awareness but has also strengthened the relationship between families and the educational institutions serving them.

Well-Deserved Recognition

The importance of Alexis Rivas's work has not gone unnoticed. In addition to her recent accolade from the NAA, she was also awarded the prestigious 2024 30 Under 30 Award from State Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes, further underscoring her impact in the Inland Empire. These honors represent not just personal achievements but also highlight the collective efforts within Think Together to advocate for educational equity for all children.

As the NAA prepares to celebrate Rivas and her fellow honorees at the NAA25 convention held in Nashville from March 9-12, the spotlight shines on the collective resolution to uplift afterschool programs. The honorees are a testament to the promising future of educational engagement and advocacy.

A Legacy of Leadership

Alexis Rivas joins a prestigious group of past Think Together leaders recognized by the NAA, including Hernan Sanchez, Helen Welderufael, Alberto Barajas, and Stacy Galdamez. This ongoing tradition of honoring dedicated professionals within the afterschool sector reflects the organization's commitment to nurturing talent and creating outstanding educational leaders.

Think Together remains dedicated to its mission of ensuring educational equity and excellence, striving to change the odds for countless California students. Through ongoing innovations and community engagement initiatives, they are paving the way for a brighter future for children across the state.

For further insights and developments regarding Think Together and Alexis Rivas's recognition, readers can visit Think Together for more information.