In America today, 1 in 4 youth—15 million children—are alone and unsupervised after school.

Each October, 1 million Americans and thousands of communities nationwide celebrate Lights On Afterschool to shine a light on the afterschool programs that keep kids safe, inspire them to learn and help working families.

Last year, more than one million people gathered at more than 9,000 sites across the country and at U.S. military bases worldwide to participate in the only nationwide rally for afterschool programs. At Lights On Afterschool events, students conducted science experiments, showcased artwork, performed on stage, learned about healthy eating, participated in sports tournaments, spruced up parks and nature trails, and sent the message that millions more children need quality afterschool programs. For the sixth year in a row, the Empire State Building in New York City was lit up in honor of the event.