Afterschool Alliance Afterschool Programs

The MindWorks Fox representing Afterschool Alliance with associated imagery and icons
The MindWorks Fox representing Afterschool Alliance with associated imagery and icons

The Afterschool Alliance is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that all children have access to affordable, quality afterschool programs. Established in 2000, the Alliance works to increase public and private investments in afterschool initiatives across the United States. With a network of over 28,000 program partners, the organization serves as both an advocate and a resource center for afterschool programs nationwide.

The Alliance focuses on key areas such as academic support, enrichment, social-emotional learning (SEL), and college and career readiness. By collaborating with policymakers, educators, and community leaders, the organization aims to address the unmet demand for afterschool programs, particularly in underserved and economically disadvantaged communities. Their efforts include research, policy advocacy, and public awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of out-of-school time (OST) programs.

Afterschool Alliance Afterschool Impact

The Afterschool Alliance has played a pivotal role in advancing the availability and quality of afterschool programs across the country. Through its advocacy and research efforts, the organization has influenced policy decisions and increased funding for OST initiatives, benefiting millions of students and families.

📚 Academic Outcomes

Afterschool programs supported by the Alliance have been associated with improved academic performance, including higher test scores and increased homework completion rates. These programs provide students with additional learning opportunities and personalized support.

🏫 Attendance & Engagement

Participation in afterschool programs has been linked to better school-day attendance and reduced absenteeism. Students engaged in these programs often demonstrate increased motivation and a stronger connection to their school community.

🧠 Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Alliance emphasizes the integration of SEL into afterschool programming, helping students develop essential skills such as emotional regulation, empathy, and resilience. These competencies contribute to overall well-being and success both in and out of the classroom.

🎓 College & Career Readiness

Afterschool initiatives championed by the Alliance offer leadership development, mentoring, and exposure to college and career pathways. These experiences equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for post-secondary success.

Sources: Afterschool Alliance and National AfterSchool Association

Metro

The Alliance supports a nationwide network of state afterschool leads and collaboratives. It connects local providers, city intermediaries, school systems, and youth-serving organizations to resources, policy updates, and national campaigns.

Rural

The Afterschool Alliance advocates for OST access in rural and tribal areas. It highlights barriers like transportation, staff shortages, and broadband while promoting equity-centered solutions.

Federal Funding

The Afterschool Alliance does not directly administer federal grants, but it leads advocacy for 21st CCLC, Full-Service Community Schools, and other federal initiatives supporting expanded learning opportunities.

State Funding

Through its state networks, the Alliance promotes increased state-level investments in afterschool. It provides policy guidance, research, and communication tools for state coalitions.

All Funding Sources

  • Foundations: Mott Foundation, Wallace Foundation, Bezos Family Foundation
  • Corporate partners: New York Life, JCPenney
  • Federal contracts for technical assistance and research
  • Donations and sponsorships

Family Involvement

Families can use the Afterschool Alliance’s resources to find local programs and advocate for expanded OST opportunities in their community.

Partner Involvement

Join national initiatives like Lights On Afterschool, become a local ambassador, or collaborate with the state networks supported by the Alliance.

Afterschool Alliance Afterschool Resources

Related Afterschool Alliance MindWorks Pages

See the following MindWorks pages for information from similar or neighboring states and organizations that may be relevant to Afterschool Alliance.

States

  • California – Frequently highlighted in Afterschool Alliance reports for large-scale OST investment and innovation (e.g., ELO-P).
  • Florida – State-level OST initiatives regularly featured in Afterschool Alliance case studies and Lights On Afterschool campaigns.
  • New York – Strong partner in state advocacy and data collection supporting OST funding expansion.
  • Texas – Active state network aligned with Afterschool Alliance's national policy agenda and funding research.
  • Illinois – Robust statewide coalition supported by Afterschool Alliance resources and legislative engagement.

Organizations