What we do

To expand support for quality afterschool programs, the Afterschool Alliance works with agencies, elected officials, business, 50 state afterschool networks, community leaders, and program providers across the nation. We’re in touch with more than 25,000 afterschool program partners and our publications reach more than 65,000 interested individuals every month. Our main areas of work include:
 
  • Research & Publications – Covering topics such as STEM learning, best practices, and youth outcomes. Our America After 3PM report is the most comprehensive data available on where young people spend the after school hours.
  • Policy & Advocacy – We are committed to educating policymakers year-round about the value of afterschool and summer learning opportunities. Every spring, we host the Afterschool for All Challenge, convening parents, youth, and afterschool leaders from across the country for trainings and meetings with members of Congress in Washington, D.C.
  • Communications – We generate thousands of positive stories on afterschool every year, reaching tens of millions of people, while also growing and maintaining an active online presence, boasting 34,000 social media followers. Organizing the only nationwide celebration of afterschool programs every October, we help more than 8,000 programs showcase their work and gain recognition during Lights On Afterschool.
  • Field-Building – We provide resources on all topics above to 25,000 afterschool programs, as well as technical assistance to 50 state afterschool networks. Our team also works to place AmeriCorps VISTAs in communities to help advance afterschool.