U.S. families are looking for ways to fill the gap for children between the time the formal school day ends and when parents come home from work. There’s little disagreement that after-school programs are necessary to keep kids occupied and engaged in non-traditional learning. According to the findings of the Afterschool Alliance in Fall 2008, consumers believe:

• After-school programs are important 89%
• Officials should increase funding for after-school programs 76%
• After-school programs are a necessity at the community level 76%

A study by the National League of Cities highlights the various ways that local entities are funding often cash-strapped public after-school programs. Strategies include seeking funds from private companies, tapping philanthropic organizations or establishing a local tax. After-school program operators can also obtain funding via state grants or federal community development programs. In addition, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides funding for programs as follows:

• Child Care and Development Block Grants – $2 Billion (1/3 to after-school programs)
• Title I School Funding – $13 Billion ($2 billion for higher quality facilities for school-based after-school programs)

The new legislation also designates monies to enhance youth services and opportunities. Read the rest of the details in this study and then meet with providers of after-school programs in your market area. As they secure new funding, they may be looking for agencies to help them market their services.

[Source: Out of School Time Programs, National League of Cities, Spring 2009]