Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event to illuminate the benefits of afterschool programs and draw attention to the pressing need for additional programs. Although the official day for Lights On in 2010 is October 21, thousands of school districts and communities around the country will host Lights On events throughout October. In the Central Valley many school districts will host afterschool open houses to commemorate Lights On Afterschool day.

Lights On Afterschool was launched in October 2000 with celebrations in 1,200 communities nationwide. The following year 3,600 events took place. Today, more than 7,500 Lights On Afterschool rallies are held annually, attracting 1 million Americans and media coverage nationwide.

Lights On Afterschool Central Valley

Central Valley Afterschool Foundation began to celebrate Lights On Afterschool in a big way in 2009. The tradition will continue as long as community support is available.

Our Lights On Central Valley festivities bring together K-12 students throughout multiple districts and counties for exhibitions, competitions and activities that highlight what’s going on in afterschool programs.

Elementary, middle school and high school afterschool students love it because they enjoy the goal of demonstrating to other people what they do in a fun way. Afterschool leaders enjoy the event because it creates better teamwork and program pride, shapes attitudes and fosters student excellence. Parents appreciate the special event for the kids and watching their students’ progress. Community members love seeing some of the positive activities the youth of today are doing afterschool.

For more information about Lights On Afterschool on a national level: www.afterschoolalliance.org

For more information about Lights On Afterschool Central Valley: www.lightsoncentralvalley.org or www.centralvalleyafterschool.org