Afterschool Webinar:

Lights On Afterschool is back for its 27th year, celebrating afterschool programs, students, and staff! Taking place this year on October 22, 2026, this nationwide event brings together more than 8,000 programs to showcase the important role afterschool plays in supporting youth, families, and communities.

Like afterschool programs, Lights On Afterschool celebrations come in all shapes and sizes and don't have to be huge to be effective. Whether this is your first Lights On Afterschool or your 27th, join us for this webinar to discover new ideas and put a fresh spin on your event this year!

Speakers

• Shaun Gray, Senior Manager of Design and Events, Afterschool Alliance
• Dawn Fickett, Director of Afterschool and Summer Learning Programs, R.E.A.C.H. After School Program
• Ghiles Jackson, Program Director, After School All-Stars
• Victoria Morris, Director of Programs, Volunteers of America LightHouse Program

Webinar Resources

• Webinar slide deck

Resources on the Lights On Afterschool website:

• Register your event
• Event database
• Planning timeline
• Event planning guide
• Tips on engaging with policymakers
• Tips on reaching out to media
• Social media toolkit
• Lightbulb Challenge

R.E.A.C.H Afterschool Program Resources:

• Letter to a policymaker 
• Lights On Afterschool invitation

After School All-Star Resources:

• Lights On After the Bell — trailer
• Lights On After the Bell — full film (16 mins)
• NYC funder spotlight on the film's premiere