Message 1: Afterschool During Critical Hours
The hours after school are when youth are most likely to be unsupervised. High-quality afterschool programs provide safe, structured environments where young people are engaged, supervised, and supported.
Why it resonates: Public safety, prevention, peace of mind for families
Key phrases:
Afterschool programs:
Support physical and mental health and social skills development
Keep kids safe, supervised, and engaged
Reduce risky behaviors, especially during the peak crime hours of 3-6pm
Improve academic outcomes
Improve school-day attendance and behavior
Message 2: Afterschool supports working families and local economies
Reliable, affordable afterschool care allows parents to work, pursue education, and contribute to the economy without worrying about their children’s safety.
Why it resonates: Workforce participation, economic stability, family well-being
Key phrases:
Afterschool programs:
- Support working families and contribute to a reliable local workforce
- Provide consistent care that helps employees stay on the job
- Bridge the gap between school schedules and business hours
- Strengthen local economies
- Help businesses attract and retain employees
- Are a smart, community-wide investment in economic growth
Message 3: Afterschool builds the future workforce and civic leaders
Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, afterschool programs develop workforce-ready skills and cultivate future leaders.
Why it resonates: Talent pipeline, leadership development, civic health
Key phrases:
Afterschool programs:
- Build the next generation of skilled workers and local leaders
- Develop real-world skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving
- Strengthen the local talent pipeline
- Increase interest and confidence in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects and careers
- Prepare youth for careers through hands-on learning and mentorship
- Foster civic engagement, community leadership, and college and career readiness
- Help young people build confidence, agency, and a sense of belonging
Message 4: Afterschool has broad bipartisan support
Afterschool programs have strong bipartisan support because they deliver on shared priorities – keeping kids safe, supporting working families, and strengthening local economies.
Why it resonates: Broad political appeal, voter support, common ground, practical solutions
Key phrases:
Afterschool programs:
- Are widely supported by voters
- Reflect shared community priorities
- Deliver practical, proven solutions
- Unite leaders across political lines
- Are an essential community investment
Message 5: Afterschool is a smart, cost-effective investment for communities
Investing in afterschool is a practical, cost-effective way to strengthen communities and maximize public resources.
Why it resonates: Return on investment, prevention, efficient use of public funds, long-term savings
Key phrases:
Afterschool programs: