Message from the Director, Contrell Armor
HARRISBURG, Pa., July 22,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania
Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network (PSAYDN)
commends the groundbreaking initiative by the Pennsylvania governor and state legislature to
significantly enhance the educational landscape through the
"Building Opportunity through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) Program."
This historic investment promises to bridge the substantial access
gap in quality afterschool and summer programs, benefiting youth
across the state.
Investing in our children's education extends beyond traditional
classroom settings. It encompasses a commitment to quality before
and afterschool, as well as summer programs that forge
transformative learning experiences. Such programs are crucial in
shaping the futures of Pennsylvania's youth, offering nearly a
sevenfold return on investment by lowering rates of substance use,
violent crime, teen pregnancies, and high school dropouts.
Additionally, they play a pivotal role in enhancing social skills,
boosting school attendance, and paving the way for future career
pathway opportunities.
Despite the clear benefits, the current challenge lies in
accessibility and funding. With over 775,000 Pennsylvania children potentially benefiting
from these programs, the reality is stark—with every child
enrolled, four more remain on the waiting list. The BOOST program
aims to eliminate these barriers by establishing a dedicated,
sustainable state funding stream that will increase access to
quality out-of-school time (OST) programs throughout the state.
Eligible community-based nonprofits and statewide youth-serving
organizations will receive funding to support services that enhance
social, emotional, academic and vocational competencies; reduce
negative behaviors and health-compromising activities; provide safe
environments for out-of-school time; and facilitate career
exploration and apprenticeships, among other approved
activities.
PSAYDN is prepared to support afterschool programs and state
agencies as this initiative is implemented, ensuring that the BOOST
program achieves its full potential. By fostering a collaborative
environment between government, educators and community leaders, we
can make a profound impact on the educational and personal growth
of our youth.
About PSAYDN
PSAYDN supports and advocates for sustainable, high-quality
afterschool programs by drawing together key decision-makers
committed to improving outcomes for youth, their families, and
communities. PSAYDN is part of a national collective of Statewide
Afterschool Networks committed to improving and advancing
afterschool opportunities across the nation. Since 2004, PSAYDN has
grown to serve more than 3,000 members.
For more information, visit www.PSAYDN.org.
Contact: Kelly Swanson,
717-992-5964, kswanson@csc.csiu.org
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SOURCE Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development
Network