Contact your Elected Officials
Voicing support of afterschool and summer programs to representatives, both local and national, can make an important impact. Funding and public support can make the difference between children having access to programs and having nowhere to go. Likewise, it can limit or expand the capabilities of programs that are running. Call, write, and meet with representatives. Afterschool Alliance has a wealth of resources, including action kits, issue briefs and outreach tools and templates.
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Virginia Issues
The first step to action is knowing your local legislators. In Virginia, you can look up your representative here.
Stayed tuned to VPOST by subscribing to our newsletter for local action alerts. Currently, Virginia’s budget is undergoing the legislative process, making it the perfect time to take action. Get our infographic on current funding issues that affect OST in Virginia. (pictured left)
Get the facts on why afterschool matters in Virginia.
Lights On Afterschool
Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates media coverage across the country each year. The events send a powerful message that millions of more kids need quality afterschool programs. Afterschool Alliance has numerous ideas, tools, and templates to create and promote an event.
To register your site for this event or to learn more, visit the Lights On Afterschool Website. This year’s event will be held on October 26th, 2023.
National Summer Learning Week
National Summer Learning Week is a national advocacy week aimed at elevating the importance of keeping kids learning, safe and healthy every summer, ensuring they return to school in the fall ready to succeed in the year. On July 10-14 participation sent a powerful message across the nation that summers matter and offers an opportunity to showcase how summers can make a life-changing difference in the lives of young people.
Afterschool for All Challenge
Afterschool for All Challenge is a day of national advocacy, sponsored by the Afterschool Alliance, in which out-of-school time supporters educate Congress about the benefits of OST programs. Hundreds of OST leaders from around the nation visit Capitol Hill and meet with U.S. Senators and Representatives. Those not visiting Washington DC can also participate by contacting their representatives and using social media to send messages about the need to protect and increase funding. The Afterschool for All Challenge was held on May 17-20, 2022. Future events will be announced soon.
