Expanding Opportunities for Michigan Youth

Afterschool and summer learning programs are more important than ever for ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

What the Research Shows

Benefits to Youth and Families

Decades of research show afterschool and summer programs help young people realize their full potential and provide essential supports for families.
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Accelerating Learning and Literacy
Afterschool and summer learning programs complement what kids learn at school and offer enriching activities that get students excited about learning, improve their academic performance, and boost their school attendance. 
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Promoting Healthy Futures
Afterschool and summer learning programs play an important role in supporting young people’s safety, well-being, and mental health. There has never been a more important time to strengthen these supports for Michigan kids and families.
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Supporting Working Families
Afterschool and summer learning programs provide critical support to Michigan families, businesses, and our economy. They ensure caregivers have quality child care options when schools are closed so they can work without worry.
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Strengthening Our Future Workforce
Afterschool and summer learning is a smart investment in Michigan’s economy and future generations. Programs help young people build life skills, explore careers, and get connected to local businesses.

Michigan Families Love Afterschool

A survey of Michigan parents finds demand for afterschool programs is enormous.
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Working Families

>8 in 10

of Michigan parents say afterschool helps them keep their jobs and boosts their productivity

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Children Waiting

678,000+

5 in 6 youth are missing out on the afterschool opportunities their families want

High Quality

87%

of Michigan parents rate their child's program as"excellent" or "very good"

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Public Funding

88%

of Michigan parents support public funding for afterschool programs

92% Democrats
87% Republicans
90% Independents

Engaged in Learning

87%

of Michigan parents say afterschool encourages fun and learning while decreasing screen time for their kids

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Social Skills

86%

of Michigan parents say afterschool helps children develop social skills

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Physically Active

82%

of Michigan parents agree afterschool provides kids opportunities to be physically active

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Safety

77%

of Michigan parents say afterschool keeps their kids safe

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STEM Learning

78%

of Michigan parents say their child’s afterschool program offers STEM learning opportunities

Featured Stories

We really focus on relationships. Our tutors and coaches live out our guiding principle with every student: ‘Nuestra casa es su casa’ which means, ‘Our home is your home.’” 
Hannah C.
CASA Operations Manager, Holland
One thing I’ve learned in afterschool is that my voice is powerful. The words you speak have an impact."
Charisma H.
Student, Detroit

Michigan Needs More Afterschool!

Afterschool programs help young people build life skills, do better in school, get connected to their community, and explore careers.

But in Michigan, 5 in 6 youth are missing out on the afterschool opportunities their families want. That's 678,000+ children whose parents would enroll them if a program were available.

Add your name and email if you support expanding afterschool programs to help Michigan youth, families, and communities thrive. You’ll stay up to date on our campaign and how you can help.