Host a rally for Lights On Afterschool this year

Organizing a rally is a fantastic way to bring your community together and actively demonstrate the importance of afterschool programs. These powerful celebrations foster enthusiasm and meaningful conversations, create a collective call to action for more afterschool, and also attract media attention, amplifying your message and allowing it to reach an even broader audience.

There are so many ways to make your rally exciting and impactful, from encouraging attendees to bring homemade signs to inviting policymakers to your event. As you plan your event, use these successful rallies from last year as inspiration.

• Indiana: The Indiana Afterschool Network celebrated Lights On Afterschool with a rally at Monument Circle. Participants showed up with signs and stories highlighting the positive impact of afterschool across Indiana and posed for photos with friends of afterschool and summer learning across the state. Afterschool program directors also discussed how their programs provide engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences. The Indianapolis Power & Light windows lit up to commemorate Lights On Afterschool.
   
• Colorado: Students in the Project Dream program celebrated Lights On Afterschool by parading from Lake County High School to the Lake County Courthouse in homemade tie-dyed t-shirts. After arriving at the courthouse, which was lit up for the event, students participated in yard games, visited the Mobile Learning Center, and completed fun activity sheets.
   
• Hawai'i: The Hawai'i Afterschool Alliance, along with afterschool programs, hosted a Lights On Afterschool rally at the State Capitol rotunda. To kickstart the event, participants waved signs as they walked along Beretania Street. Afterschool students showcased their talents in arts, dance, STEM, and music and shared testimonies alongside legislator remarks. All participants received lightbulb buttons as a reminder to keep the Lights On Afterschool.

Gathering together in a public space to advocate for afterschool sends a strong message about your community's commitment to afterschool programs and their positive impact. If hosting a rally sounds like the perfect fit for your afterschool program, you can discover even more ideas in our searchable event database.

Registration for Lights On Afterschool is now open! Sign up now to receive 10 free posters to help promote your celebration. Happy Lights On Afterschool season!