Many communities and states have had success getting their mayor or governor to issue a proclamation in support of Lights On Afterschool. In fact, nearly every governor in the country signs a proclamation each year. This gesture is a simple way for elected officials to show their support and gives you something to show off and announce at your event.
More than just mayors and governors can issue proclamations—a school board, parks, and recreation department, your own governing board, or your partners can also issue proclamations for Lights On Afterschool. You can use this as an opportunity to tell them about your program's successes and to thank them for their support. Below is sample language for a proclamation that any organization might adopt to endorse Lights On Afterschool and affirm that afterschool is key to kids' success.
WHEREAS, the citizens of the [Insert state] stand firmly committed to quality afterschool programs and opportunities because they:
WHEREAS, afterschool programs provide critical support for children and youth, offering them new experiences and opportunities, along with hands-on learning, that help them learn and grow. Youth who attend afterschool programs attend school more often, do better in school, and gain important work and life skills. These supports are especially important today.
WHEREAS, [Insert state] is committed to the education and well-being of our youth, and recognizes that quality afterschool programs prepare our children to become successful adults and help our communities thrive.
WHEREAS, Lights On Afterschool, the national celebration of afterschool programs held this year on [date of celebration], promotes the importance of quality afterschool programs for our children, families, and communities.
WHEREAS, the demand for afterschool programs continues to grow; for every child in a program, four are waiting to get in.
WHEREAS, many afterschool programs face operating challenges so severe that they are forced to consider closing their doors and turning off their lights.
WHEREAS, [Insert state] is committed to providing expanded learning opportunities that help our children learn, grow, and develop the skills essential for success in life and work.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Governor [Insert Governor], do hereby proclaim [date of celebration] as "Lights On Afterschool Day;" AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Governor enthusiastically endorses Lights On Afterschool and commits our state to engage in innovative afterschool programs and activities that ensure the lights stay on and the doors stay open for all children after school.
WHEREAS, the citizens of the [Name of Organization, Institution, or Location] stand firmly committed to quality afterschool programs and opportunities because they:
WHEREAS, afterschool programs provide critical support for children and youth, offering them new experiences and opportunities, along with hands-on learning, that help them learn and grow. Youth who attend afterschool programs attend school more often, do better in school, and gain important work and life skills. These supports are especially important today.
WHEREAS, [Insert state] is committed to the education and well-being of our youth, and recognizes that quality afterschool programs prepare our children to become successful adults and help our communities thrive.
WHEREAS, Lights On Afterschool, the national celebration of afterschool programs held this year on [date of celebration], promotes the importance of quality afterschool programs for our children, families, and communities.
WHEREAS, the demand for afterschool programs continues to grow; for every child in a program, four are waiting to get in.
WHEREAS, many afterschool programs face operating challenges so severe that they are forced to consider closing their doors and turning off their lights.
WHEREAS, [Insert state] is committed to providing expanded learning opportunities that help our children learn, grow, and develop the skills essential for success in life and work.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Governor [Insert Governor], do hereby proclaim [date of celebration] as "Lights On Afterschool Day;" AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Governor enthusiastically endorses Lights On Afterschool and commits our state to engage in innovative afterschool programs and activities that ensure the lights stay on and the doors stay open for all children after school.