Celebrate 9th Annual Lights On Afterschool October 16

Join 7,500 communities and one million Americans in celebrating afterschool programs at the Afterschool Alliance's 9th annual Lights On Afterschool. This nationwide event, celebrated, October 16, calls attention to the importance of afterschool programs and the resources required to keep the lights on and the doors open. Florida has been in the top three states of participating Lights On Afterschool programs during the past three years, and the Children's Forum is proud to be a supporting organization.

Too many children (14.3 million) are missing out on afterschool opportunities. Afterschool programs keep kids safe, help working families and inspire learning. They provide opportunities to help young people develop into successful adults. Participate in Lights On Afterschool and help call attention to this important issue.

To learn more about Lights On Afterschool, register an event, access Event Planning Tools, or find out what is going on in your area on October 16, visit www.afterschoolalliance.org. Those who register will receive free posters and their events will be promoted to the media and the public. Lights On Afterschool is a project of the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that all children have access to afterschool programs.

Lights On Afterschool Mini-Grants Available Through the Florida Afterschool Network

The Florida Afterschool Network (FAN) is pleased to announce the availability of Lights On Afterschool mini grants. FAN is offering support through mini-grants to local afterschool programs to help off-set event costs. This support is made possible through FAN's Statewide Afterschool Network Grant, funded by the C.S.Mott Foundation. Programs are invited to submit a request for funds to assist in covering expenses that would help increase the profile of your event or help make it more attractive to media and policymakers. Funding is allocated through a competitive grant process open to all schools and afterschool provider agencies. There will be 2 levels of sponsorship (Level 1) Up to $2500 for multiple program community collaborative events and (Level 2) Up to $1000 for individual (school or program) events. Programs must exhibit a high degree of coordination and involvement with schools and other community partners. Visit www.myFAN.org for complete mini-grant details, available in late July. Grant applications will be due by August 29, 2008.

In this Issue

Celebrate 9th Annual Lights On Afterschool October 16

Lights On Afterschool Mini-Grants Available Through the Florida Afterschool Network