The National AfterSchool Association (NAA) (@nationalafterschoolassociation) has named Amber Craig, from Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline, among its 2026 Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders.![]()
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This recognition celebrates outstanding early-career professionals in the out-of-school time field who are deeply committed to their own growth and the growth of others, and who continue to build their leadership skills through dedication, curiosity, and perseverance. ![]()
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Growing up in a rural community outside of Lynchburg, Amber is the daughter of a single parent who relied on afterschool programs for safe, reliable care. Her experiences in these programs from kindergarten through 12th grade shaped her commitment to youth development and her belief in the power of accessible, high-quality OST opportunities. ![]()
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Amber has become a strong field leader, elevating the profile of OST in the Shenandoah Valley and statewide. She first spoke on a regional OST panel at the 2023 VPOST Conference, an experience that led her to joining the VPOST Conference Planning Committee in 2025, where she helped shape the vision and execution of the statewide event. She is an active member of the Harrisonburg Out-of-School Learning Coalition, collaborating with programs across her community to further expand access to and the quality of afterschool programs.![]()
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VPOST is immensely proud of our friend and colleague, Amber, and we look forward to celebrating her in March at NAA26!
📢 WEBINAR OPPORTUNITY![]()
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📲Register today: bit.ly/VPOSTadvocacy![]()
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Advocacy starts with knowing your story and feeling confident sharing it. In this interactive one-hour session, participants will explore what advocacy looks like in the out-of-school time field and why youth and family voices matter.![]()
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Together, we’ll practice simple storytelling strategies that highlight the benefits and positive impact of OST programs. Participants will also learn how to support youth and parents in sharing their experiences. All attendees will receive youth and adult advocacy guides to help continue the work beyond the workshop.
Registration is live now! 📲 na.eventscloud.com/website/77240/register/![]()
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This March, point your GPS toward Washington, D.C. to join VPOST and afterschool professionals from across the country, including your Virginia professional peers, for NAA26!![]()
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Four days of Dream. Dare. Do. in action – featuring inspiring speakers, interactive educational sessions, and a dynamic Learning Expo.
NEXT WEEK: A special episode of The STEM Talk you won’t want to miss!![]()
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Our own Jodi Grant will break down a promising new federal tax credit–based funding opportunity for out-of-school time programs — one that would allow taxpayers to offset part of their federal tax liability by donating to eligible nonprofits, including afterschool and summer learning programs. 👀 ![]()
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With the program set to take effect in the 2027 tax year, now’s the time to learn how this funding could support your program and the families you serve!![]()
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Register now! tiesteach-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/3517689343288/WN_xxxwmXF7SeGu3B5EILKZow
📢 Join the 50 State Afterschool Network TODAY for a webinar detailing this challenge. ![]()
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The webinar starts at 2:00 PM. 📲Register here: bit.ly/4q4IZnw![]()
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This national pitch competition invites K-12 students to submit a short, 30-90 second video showcasing an idea that would make a positive impact in their school, home, or community. Submissions are due February 27, 2026.
