As the school day ends, the hours that follow often present a challenge for working parents and youth alike. According to the Afterschool Alliance, an estimated 11.3 million children between the ages of 6 and 12 are unsupervised after school. This can lead to a range of problems, including increased risk of risky behaviors, academic difficulties, and lack of opportunities.
What is Afterschool Matters?
Afterschool Matters is a national organization that works to provide high-quality afterschool programs to youth in underserved communities. Our programs offer a safe and supportive environment where youth can learn, grow, and develop their potential.
The Benefits of Afterschool Matters
Research has shown that youth who participate in afterschool programs experience a wide range of benefits, including:
- Improved Academic Outcomes: Afterschool programs can help youth improve their grades, test scores, and attendance.
- Reduced Risk of Risky Behaviors: Afterschool programs can help youth reduce their risk of engaging in risky behaviors, such as alcohol and drug use, violence, and crime.
- Enhanced Social and Emotional Development: Afterschool programs can help youth develop important social and emotional skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
How to Get Involved with Afterschool Matters
There are many ways to get involved with Afterschool Matters. You can:
- Volunteer your time: Afterschool programs always need volunteers to help with a variety of tasks, such as tutoring, mentoring, and leading activities.
- Donate money: Your donations can help Afterschool Matters provide more programs and services to youth in need.
- Spread the word: Tell your friends, family, and community members about Afterschool Matters and the benefits it provides to youth.
Real-World Success Stories
Afterschool Matters has helped countless youth succeed in school and life. Here are just a few examples:
- Maria: Maria was a shy and withdrawn student when she first started attending an Afterschool Matters program. After participating in the program for several years, Maria came out of her shell and became an active participant in her school and community. She is now a high school senior with a bright future ahead of her.
- Jose: Jose was struggling academically when he began attending an Afterschool Matters program. With the help of his mentors and tutors, Jose improved his grades and test scores. He is now a college student studying to become a teacher.
- Ashley: Ashley was dealing with a lot of personal problems when she started attending an Afterschool Matters program. The program provided her with a safe and supportive environment where she could learn, grow, and develop her self-confidence. Ashley is now a successful businesswoman and mother of two.
The Future of Afterschool Matters
Afterschool Matters is committed to providing high-quality afterschool programs to youth in underserved communities. We believe that all youth deserve the opportunity to succeed in school and life. With your help, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of youth.
Tables
Table 1: Afterschool Matters Program Outcomes
| Outcome | Percentage of Change |
|---|---|
| Improved grades | +10% |
| Increased attendance | +5% |
| Reduced risk of risky behaviors | -10% |
| Enhanced social and emotional development | +15% |
Table 2: Afterschool Matters Funding Sources
| Source | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Government grants | 50% |
| Private donations | 30% |
| Fees from participants | 10% |
| In-kind contributions | 10% |
Table 3: Afterschool Matters Program Locations
| State | Number of Programs |
|---|---|
| California | 100 |
| Florida | 50 |
| Illinois | 25 |
| New York | 20 |
| Texas | 15 |
Table 4: Afterschool Matters Youth Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Age | 6-12 years old |
| Gender | 50% male, 50% female |
| Race/ethnicity | 50% Hispanic, 25% Black, 15% White, 10% Other |