WHO:

Parents, grandparents and caretakers of kids who participate in afterschool programs, teachers, community partners, community members and volunteers.

WHAT:

A letter-writing party to help your community's voice be heard by policy makers.

WHEN:

Schedule the letter-writing party after most people's work day. Perhaps it can take place on-site at the afterschool program at a time when most parents come to pick up their kids - 5:30 p.m. or 6 p.m. Afterschool staff can then continue to supervise the children while the meeting takes place. Or, it can be added on to a parent meeting or other advisory board or community partner meeting that is already planned.

WHY:

Parents and community members have a vested interest in afterschool programs. Parents not only see the direct benefits programs have on their children, but many might also depend on afterschool to provide a safe and constructive place for their children while they are at work. Community members can see the positive influence afterschool has on kids and how that in turn makes the community a better place for everyone. A letter-writing meeting presents an opportunity for you to communicate directly with a group of parents and community members about issues affecting afterschool in your community and a way for your community's voices to be heard by policy makers. Policy makers don't know how worthwhile afterschool programs are unless people tell them - and the parents of children in afterschool programs and community members can be powerful voices

HOW:

The most efficient way to involve parents and community members is to conduct a "letter-writing party" to present the necessary information and get the letters written in one sitting. Here are some tips for organizing a "letter-writing party":

• Write up an invitation (a simple handout will do) to parents and community partners letting them know how important their letters are in determining whether afterschool programs will continue. Their voices count! They are the ones who have experienced first-hand the benefits of afterschool. This is their chance to tell their story and know that it will be heard.
• Provide refreshments if possible (maybe there's a local grocery store, deli or café willing to donate). If you are able to provide refreshments, say so on the invitation.
• Have a sign-up sheet so you can contact those that attend in the future. Also urge those interested in learning more about the national afterschool movement and/or the Afterschool Alliance to visit our website at www.afterschoolalliance.org for up-to-date policy news, afterschool research and upcoming events. On our website they can also pledge their support for afterschool and be added to our mailing list.
• Before the meeting, print up enough Sample Letters for everyone who will attend so people can use them to structure the format of their letters. They can handwrite their letters or use computers (if available). It is essential that they include their name, address and phone number on the letters.
• Provide pens, paper, envelopes and, if possible, stamps. Perhaps these materials can be donated from an office-supply store or local company willing to make a donation to help support afterschool programs. After attendees address and stamp the envelopes, collect them and put them in the mail. Try to urge attendees to complete the letters before they leave the meeting - it may be difficult for them to find time once they leave.