Access to programming

In Washington state, there is little public funding for youth development programs. The impact is stark with significant racial and geographic disparities in who has access.

For every student in an afterschool program, there are 5 waiting to get into one.

This is Afterschool in Washington by Afterschool Alliance, May 2022

Nearly 50% of parents report there is no available afterschool program in their community.

Washington After 3PM by Afterschool Alliance, 2020

58% of parents of Black youth report afterschool programs are too expensive.

America After 3PM for Black Families and Communities by Afterschool Alliance,  January 2021

Participation in afterschool activities for Black youth dropped from 24% in 2014 to 18% in 2020.

America After 3PM for Black Families and Communities by Afterschool Alliance,  January 2021

Prevention

Parents in Washington agree that afterschool programs are helping young people to:

  • Learn life skills – 82%
  • Build positive relationships with caring adults and mentors – 80%
  • Build confidence – 83%
  • Be physically active – 82%
  • Access nutritious foods – 69%
  • Stay safe and out of trouble – 78%
This is Afterschool in Washington, Afterschool Alliance, May 2022

Academics

  • 60% of Washington students in afterschool programs are getting homework help.
  • 88% of Washington students in afterschool programs are interacting with their peers and building social skills.
This is Afterschool in Washington, Afterschool Alliance, May 2022

The 2021 Department of Education annual performance report of 21st CCLC found that among regular participants:

  • 1 in 2 youth improved their language arts or math grades
  • 7 in 10 youth improved their homework completion and class participation
  • More 3 in 5 youth improved their behavior in class