by Olivia Camarena | Oct 30, 2026 | Health, Safety & Wellbeing, Staffing, Culture & Retention
After-school staff burnout is a persistent challenge for youth-serving organizations, and research confirms what program directors have observed. In an American Institutes for Research survey of more than 7,000 youth workers for the Wallace Foundation, about four in...
by Olivia Camarena | Jul 24, 2026 | Staffing, Culture & Retention
Hiring the right people is difficult. Keeping them? Even more challenging. After-school programs lose talented staff every year, often because something deeper went wrong from the beginning: values weren’t aligned, the mission didn’t feel personal. Over...
by Olivia Camarena | Dec 23, 2024 | Staffing, Culture & Retention
Creating a thriving after-school program involves more than just providing engaging activities for students. It’s essential to have a united and motivated team of staff members who work together effectively. By dedicating time to team-building activities, we can...
by Olivia Camarena | Dec 5, 2024 | Staffing, Culture & Retention
Volunteers are the heart and soul of youth programs, dedicating their time and energy to enrich the lives of young participants. Recognizing and valuing these individuals goes beyond a simple “thank you.” By actively engaging with our volunteers and...
by Olivia Camarena | May 10, 2024 | Staffing, Culture & Retention
The ongoing development of any youth program’s staff is not just nice to have, it’s a strategic necessity. Training equips staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance their performance and adapt to evolving challenges. In youth programs, where staff...
by Olivia Camarena | Apr 26, 2024 | Staffing, Culture & Retention
Volunteers are a driving force. They have the power to enrich any after-school and youth program beyond bringing passion and energy to the community; they are mentors, teachers, and champions of the program’s mission. Their dedication forms the cornerstone of program...
