Advocating for after-school programs is vital to ensure children and youth have access to quality learning opportunities beyond the classroom. In this article, we explore effective strategies, research findings, and practical advice on advocating for these essential programs. Our insights are drawn from an enlightening session by the Afterschool Alliance, featuring special guests Tiana Glenn and Sophie Kidd.
Tiana Glenn, the Project Manager for Innovation and Outreach at Afterschool Alliance, leads national field-building initiatives. Alongside her, Sophie Kidd, a Project Associate for Innovation and Outreach, focuses on field outreach and research. Their expertise and dedication to enhancing after-school programs provide valuable perspectives for anyone passionate about making a difference in this field.
The Importance of After-School Programs
After-school programs offer essential support for children and families by providing academic enrichment and opportunities to develop social skills. These programs also ensure that children have a safe environment during out-of-school hours. Afterschool Alliance’s speakers highlighted several key data points demonstrating the significant impact of these programs.
- 25 Million Children Unmet Demand: The highest level of unmet demand ever recorded, indicating a vast need for more programs.
- 4-to-1 Ratio: For every child in an after-school program, four more are waiting to get in.
- Staffing Shortages: Staffing shortages are a major challenge, with 20% of programs operating at reduced capacity and 75% of those citing staffing issues as the primary reason.
- Support Across Voters: A significant majority of voters from diverse backgrounds favor increased funding for after-school programs, highlighting widespread community support.
Research and Data Insights
Tiana Glenn and Sophie Kidd shared valuable insights from the Afterschool Alliance’s extensive research supporting the case for after-school programs. Their “America After 3PM” survey, conducted since 2004, provides a comprehensive look into the demand and impact of these programs. The survey reveals that more students than ever are missing out on after-school programs, especially those from low-income families facing barriers like cost, lack of availability, and transportation issues.
Additionally, public investment in after-school programs has not kept pace with inflation, leading to declining available resources despite growing demand.
For example, the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC), the only federal funding stream dedicated to out-of-school time, has seen a significant decrease in funding when adjusted for inflation compared to 2013 levels. This situation exacerbates the challenges faced by after-school programs and highlights the urgent need for increased investment to ensure all children have access to these critical resources.
Messaging and Advocacy Tools
Effective advocacy requires compelling messaging. Afterschool Alliance’s research indicates that linking concrete problems with solutions can increase support for after-school programs, Their findings highlight three primary areas where this approach proves effective:
- Connecting Problems with Solutions: Show how after-school programs can address specific issues, such as learning loss due to the pandemic.
- Broadening the Notion of Safety: Emphasize the holistic benefits of after-school programs, including emotional and social support.
- Defining Program Benefits: Highlight the social and academic impacts, using concrete examples and statistics to demonstrate success.
By clearly illustrating the tangible benefits and addressing current concerns, advocates can make a stronger case for the necessity and expansion of after-school programs.
Crafting a Winning Elevator Pitch
An essential part of advocacy is being able to quickly and effectively communicate the value of after-school programs. Let’s review Tiana Glenn and Sophie Kidd’s key elements to crafting effective elevator pitches:
- Conciseness: Keep the pitch around 30 seconds, focusing on the most critical aspects of the program.
- Know Your Ask: Tailor the pitch to the audience, whether it’s asking for a visit, support, or funding.
- Include a Memorable Stat: Use impactful statistics to illustrate the program’s success and need.
- Compelling Anecdotes: Share personal stories or examples to make the message resonate.
By combining concise messaging with powerful statistics and personal anecdotes, advocates can make a strong, memorable case for after-school programs.
Afterschool Alliance’s Tools and Resources for After-School Programs
Afterschool Alliance provides a variety of resources to support after-school programs. Their Program Toolbox offers invaluable resources on starting, running, and sustaining programs, including funding opportunities, curriculum development, and volunteer management. Additionally, they facilitate connections with statewide after-school networks for localized support and resources.
For those advocating for after-school programs, AfterSchool Alliance also offers comprehensive research and data to bolster their efforts.
Advocating for after-school programs ensures that all children have access to enriching and supportive learning environments. By leveraging research, crafting effective messages, and utilizing available resources, advocates can make a compelling case for increased support and funding for these programs.
Afterschool Alliance encourages advocates to reach out for support, stating, “We’re here to support you, so feel free to email us if you have any questions). By tapping into these resources and strategies, advocates can effectively communicate the importance of after-school programs and work towards ensuring that every child has access to quality learning opportunities beyond the classroom.