Amplify youth voices: We need afterschool!

Talking Points

Hi, my name is [name]. I am a constituent from [city, state]. May I please speak with the legislative aide who deals with education and afterschool programs?

 

Congressional office: Let me see if XXX is available. May I ask what you are calling about?

 

I'm calling about the importance of afterschool and summer programs supported by the 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative.

 

Congressional aide: Hi, this is XX.

 

Hi, this is [name] from [city, state]. I'm calling about the importance of afterschool and summer opportunities for youth in my community, especially now.

 

I appreciate the increase made in 21st Century Community Learning Centers. These funds support local programs that provide nearly 2 million kids across America with a safe place to go after school, and help [your state]’s working parents.

 

[your state] kids who take part in these afterschool programs do better in school, are more likely to graduate, and make better decisions. Parents tell us they value the opportunities they provide for young people to engage socially, build life skills, and get excited about learning.

 

But in our community, too many kids and families are still missing out. For every child in a program, four are waiting to get in.

 

The support of afterschool and summer programs are especially critical for youth today, given the impact of the pandemic. Programs are proven to support students’ well-being and academic growth. Community Learning Centers are locally-driven solutions that help families, employers, and students to get ahead.

 

I’d like to share a little about our [program/community] and the difference this funding makes.

 

IF YOU ARE A PROVIDER OR AFTERSCHOOL PROFESSIONAL:

 

Here in [insert town/city], our program, [insert name of program], serves [insert number] kids and families. We depend on funds from the Community Learning Centers program to keep our kids safe and engaged after school.

 

[Share a bit about the community served by your program. You could touch on a short story of how the program has helped a particular youth or family.]

 

Our program has [mention any outcome data you may have, such as students attending school more often, doing better in school, reduction in behavior problems, etc.]

 

[Go to Closing Request]

 

IF YOU ARE A PARENT or CAREGIVER:

 

My children participate in the [name of program] here in [city, state]. The program is a lifeline for our family.

 

[Share how the program helps your family, and what would happen if it closes. For example:]

 

Having this program helps me, and other parents, keep our jobs. [Describe how the program helps you work, or what might happen if you did not have a program for your children.]

 

My kids are thriving in the program. [Share one or two things that the program does for your children, such as how it has supported your student during the pandemic, or helped with schoolwork, the development of new skills or experiences, relationships with caring adults, keeping active and away from screens or trouble.]

 

[Go to Closing Request]

 

 

IF YOU ARE A YOUNG PERSON IN A PROGRAM:

 

I participate in the [name of program] here in [city, state]. The program is a lifeline for me and my family.

 

[Share how the program helps you and your family, and what would happen if it closes. For example:]

 

I am thriving in the program. [Share one or two things that the program does for you, such as how it has supported you during the pandemic, or helped with schoolwork, the development of new skills or experiences, relationships with caring adults, keeping active and away from screens or trouble.]

 

 

CLOSING REQUEST:

 

Afterschool programs keep kids safe both offline and online, give parents peace of mind and help students achieve more.

 

I would like to ask that the [Congressperson/Senator] please reject any proposal to cut or eliminate 21st Century Community Learning Centers. Can we count on your support?

 

Thank you for your time today, and for working for [state]'s kids and families.

 


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