Lights On Afterschool 2021 in images

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Lights On Afterschool 2021 in images

By Maria Rizo Posted: Nov 09, 2021

That’s a wrap! The 22nd annual Lights On Afterschool celebrated the important role afterschool programs and staff play in the lives of youth and their communities. This year, we celebrated at more than 5,000 events nationwide, proclaimed Lights On Afterschool Day thanks to 42 governors, and reached more than 2.5 million people!

This is what Lights On Afterschool 2021 looked like for communities across the country:


LightbulbsYouth, parents, afterschool staff, educators, and afterschool advocates showed their support on social media with the Lightbulb Challenge, nominating others to take the challenge online.	Students also used their art skills to light up their classrooms, homes, and community centers with lightbulb drawings!

Policymakers proclaimed “Lights On Afterschool” day in their state; spoke to the importance of afterschool programs in keeping youth safe and engaged; and announced statewide efforts to provide equitable opportunities for communities.

From Dia De Los Muertos celebrations to youth performances, programs showcased what they do every day to inspire creativity, explore different subjects, learn about and appreciate different cultures, and help amplify young people’s voice!

The Empire State Building glowed blue and yellow for Lights On Afterschool, illuminating the New York City skyline for the 15th year in a row.

In addition to illuminating Times Square in New York City, more than 2,000 billboards and bus shelters displayed messages of support for afterschool programs thanks to our partners Clear Channel Outdoor, National League of Cities, and National Summer Learning Association.

Students took to the stage to show why they love their afterschool programs! The Denver City and County Building provided a bright backdrop as students, staff, and families from the Peak Learning Center in Colorado displayed posters, art, and messages of support for their afterschool program.

These are only a few of the ways that communities came together to demonstrate everything that programs do to forge successful futures for all youth. As we move forward, we continue to shine a light on all that afterschool programs do to promote positive outcomes and help kids emerge from the pandemic strong, healthy, and resilient.

Check out our feed of Lights On posts to see a collection of photos, videos, and messages of support from Lights On celebrants!

To rewatch any of our national virtual Lights On events, head to our webinar library.

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