Happy Lights On Afterschool!

Photo courtesy of South Carolina Afterschool Alliance

In Alaska, students and staff are switching off the lights and clicking on flashlights together in a synchronized countdown. In Idaho, young scientists are getting a charge out of potato-powered circuits. In Colorado, kids are leading a parade down Main Street as local businesses keep their lights on in support. And in Texas, students are climbing aboard fire trucks and other emergency vehicles, meeting the people who operate them and learning about their careers.

All of these activities, as well as student showcases, art displays, STEM nights, open houses, visits from lawmakers, and much more, are taking place as part of the 27th annual celebration of Lights On Afterschool, the only national rally for afterschool programs. Today and throughout October, one million people are coming together at 8,000 events nationwide, while landmarks light up in blue and yellow to share their support for afterschool.

USHER is serving as Honorary Chair of Lights On Afterschool, and this year, a student from Usher’s New Look is lighting up the country with her artwork. Through her afterschool program, tenth-grader Evelyn Daniel created the “Powered by Afterschool” design appearing on nearly 2,000 Clear Channel Outdoor billboards, including two jumbo screens in Times Square tonight!

Here are three easy ways to join the celebration:

• Take the #LightbulbChallenge: Recreate the Lights On logo, snap a photo, and post it with a message of support for afterschool. Challenge a partner, highlight your hardworking staff, or honor an afterschool champion. Tag #LightbulbChallenge and #LightsOnAfterschool. 

• Find an event near you and learn more about a program in your community. Hosting an event that’s open to the public? Add it to the map so families, neighbors, and local leaders can find and join you!

• Sign the Lights On petition calling on states to invest the $17B Meta settlement in youth by directing funds to afterschool and summer programs, mental health services, and digital safety. States have a huge opportunity to invest in antidotes to social media harm that help protect youth and provide positive opportunities to connect, explore, and grow. 

SAVE THE DATE: November 9 Day of Action! Election Day will soon be over—which means we will have new leaders to educate! Join us in letting newly elected leaders know about the importance of afterschool and summer programs.