2022 Representative Sample of Local Events
Alabama
Huntsville, Alabama: Charlotte Steinecke, Afterschool Alliance,
csteinecke@afterschoolalliance.org
On October 20 at 4:20 PM, NASA will host a Lights On Afterschool watch party at Marshall
Space Flight Center in Huntsville featuring a pre-recorded International Space Station (ISS)
interaction with astronaut Jessica Watkins and Keke Palmer (Disney Lightyear), followed by
panel discussions and Q&A with NASA female role models. Invited guests include a teenager
from the Million Girls Moonshot Flight Crew. Watch parties will take place across the county at
numerous afterschool programs and several NASA Centers, including NASA Headquarters in
Washington, DC and Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD. The watch party is a
collaborative effort of NASA, the Afterschool Alliance, and STEM Next Opportunity Fund,
celebrating afterschool STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programming.
Huntsville, Alabama: Edwin Lightbourne, Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama, 256-534-
6060, [email protected]
On October 18, the Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama hosted its Lights On Afterschool career
day event titled "Planting Seeds...Careers in Entertainment." This event introduced teens to
various careers in the field of entertainment, from production to performing. There was a panel
discussion made up of local individuals working in the entertainment field, culminating with a
musical performance by gospel rap artist DCrooks. The event started at 5:00 PM and up to 100
people were expected in attendance.
New Hope, Alabama: Afterschool Ambassador Andrea Bridges, abridges@thecare-center.org
On October 27 at 3:30 PM, McWane Science Center on the Move will come to the CARE
Center’s Gurley 21
st
Century Community Learning Centers program to lead a Superhero-themed
assembly at which students will experience demonstrations as they explore the science behind
superpowers. This family event will include both students and parents and will be followed by a
coordinating activity to raise awareness about Lights On Afterschool.
Russellville, Alabama: Angela Crittenden, Russellville Elementary Tiger PAWS, 256-331-
2123, [email protected]
On October 20 at 3:30 PM, Russellville Elementary Tiger PAWS is gathering families to
celebrate Lights On Afterschool by playing Lü Interactive PE Board with students. The Lü
Interactive Board, purchased through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers afterschool
program, has a wide range of educational activities that cover subject matters including STEAM
(science, technology, engineering, arts and math), physical education, languages, geography and
more. This will be an opportunity for students to blend wellness activities and technology. The
event will take place in the Russellville Elementary Gym and up to 30 families are expected.
Community leaders, teachers, and the superintendent of schools are invited.
Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska: Dorena Bingham, Anchorage Parks and Recreation, (907)917-6997,
On October 28, the Anchorage Park and Recreation Department is hosting a cobweb carnival
open house. Their community center was almost converted into a homeless shelter, but public
outcry preserved the center. The open house will consist of free classes and programs for the day,
a pottery giveaway, and entertainment and activities for adults and kids. The kids portion of the
event will include a Halloween carnival where the After School Lights activities will take place.
The carnival will also include some STEM activities such as: web making with marshmallows
and toothpicks, balancing spiders on webs, and other Halloween themed activities and crafts.
Additionally, there will be performances by a Bluegrass group and a multicultural Polynesian
dance group.Up to 100 people are expected and the open house will begin at 3:00 PM.
Homer, Alaska: Afterschool Ambassador Jane Beck, [email protected]
Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula will host Lights On Afterschool events at four area schools over
the course of the week of October 17 through 21. Participants will be engaged in STEAM
(science, technology, engineering, arts, math) projects while discussing the importance of
afterschool and learning about circuits. On Monday, October 17, Ninilchik students in the
Positive Youth Development Afterschool Program will create Mason Jar Night Lights in their
sessions from 3:30 to 5:30 PM. The same activity will engage students on Tuesday, October 18,
at Chapman School in Anchor Point, and on Wednesday, October 19, at Voznesenka. The 21st
Century Community Learning Centers afterschool students will also learn about circuits and
recognizing positive adult “anchors” by creating light-up thank you cards for their caring adults
on October 18 and 20 at Ninilchik, Kachemak Selo, and Voznesenka.
Nenana, Alaska: Adrianne Coffey, Nenana Public Library, 907-832-5843,
The Nenana Public Library is excited to host a Lights On Afterschool open house. On October 18
at 3:30 PM, there were hands-on activities for students to flex their creative and critical thinking
muscles including STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) kits and a card-making
table. Light refreshments were served. At least 30 people were expected.
Kenai, Alaska: Shanette Wik, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Kenai Peninsula, 907-283-2682
On October 29, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Kenai Peninsula will celebrate Lights On
Afterschool with a Trunk-or-Treat carnival. Starting at 5:00 PM, there will be free carnival
games including: a cake walk, face painting, pumpkin golf, tombstone toss, a photo booth,
captain hook ring toss, and more. There will be a STEM (science, technology, engineering and
math) station where kids can make their own ice cream, sensory bottles and catapults. The Kenai
Teen Center Keystone Club will sell cotton candy, sno-cones, italian soda and popcorn. Students,
their families, and local government officials are invited.
Tok, Alaska: Jane Teague, Alaska Gateway School District, 907-940-5031, [email protected]
The Alaska Gateway School District will mark Lights On Afterschool with an open house
celebration on October 20. Students will set up tables that showcase their work from their
program of choice including: fine art, pottery, robotics, lego building, baking, and theater.
Students will perform their skits, the robotics team will demonstrate robot runs, and students will
man tables showing their crafts for the community. Additionally, there will be a video running
showing students hard at work and enjoying after school programming. The event begins at 4:30
PM with an elder opening the event and acknowledging the land. Baked goods and hot cocoa
will be served. Community members are invited.
Arizona
El Mirage, Arizona: Priscilla Duenaz, DCC Kids Club El Mirage/ Surprise, 623-583-2137,
dcc.priscillad@gmail.com
On October 20, DCC Kids Club El Mirage will host a Lights On Afterschool celebration at 4:40
PM. Students will create crafts and videos showcasing their afterschool activities and will
complete STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) projects.
Phoenix, Arizona: Monica Ngegba, Boys & Girls Club of the Valley, MLB Diamondbacks
Branch, 602-268-3486, [email protected]
The Boys & Girls Club of the Valley will host an outdoor Lights On Afterschool celebration at
MLB Diamondbacks Branch on October 20 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. The basketball courts and
soccer field will be lit for the evening festivities. Guests will participate in outdoor STEM
(science, technology, engineering and math) and robotics activities and will use sidewalk chalk
to draw lightbulbs to cover the entire soccer pitch. Volunteers from Omega Psi Phi will assist
with the celebration.
Phoenix, Arizona: Jesus Ballesteros, YMCA at Monte Vista, 480-721-6826,
In honor of Lights On Afterschool, the YMCA at Monte Vista will host an open house on
October 19 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Families will have the opportunity to tour the program
and learn about the variety of activities offered. Students and their families will work together to
make lanterns.
Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas: Brittnee Gibson, Brandon House Cultural and Performing Arts, 501-
618-5427 [email protected]
The Brandon House Culture and Performing Arts center is marking Lights On Afterschool with a
carnival. On October 20 students, their families and members of the community are invited to
participate in fun games and activities including: bowling, ring toss, sack races, skeleton
scavenger hunt, spoon relay race, and more. Up to 100 people are expected, and AR Kids Read,
Big Brothers Big Sisters, CALS, and the Pulaski County 4-H Center are invited. The carnival
will begin at 6:00 PM.
Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas: Jeffrey Boyd, Little Rock Air Force Base Youth
Center, 501-987-6355, jeffre[email protected]
On October 20, Little Rock Air Force Base Youth Center is marking Lights On Afterschool with
an art show. The show will include art created in different mediums including: clay, oil pastels,
and watercolor. The showcase will emphasize the children’s unique creative creations through
outdoor decorations and art pieces that they completed as a group. Students and their families are
invited to attend.
Rogers, Arkansas: Veronica Casson, Rogers Activity Center, 479-631-0336,
On October 20, the Rogers Activity Center will celebrate Lights On Afterschool by hosting a
dinner for after school care families and staff and a silent auction. They will have several games
set up for families to enjoy, a display of all the children’s artwork, and a STEM (science,
technology, engineering and math) projects showcase. Up to 100 people are expected, and the
event will begin at 6:00 PM.
Springdale, Arkansas: Afterschool Ambassador Ben Rediske, SOAR Afterschool, Camp War
Eagle, 479-750-2006, ben@campwareagle.org
For Lights On Afterschool this year, SOAR is hosting an event at the Jones Center for Families in
Springdale at which students will lead parents and other participants in activities typical of their
daily experience at the program. The event will run from 4:00 to 5:30 PM on October 20.
California
Grass Valley, California: Cori Ove, Bright Futures for Youth Lights On, 530-265-4311,
Students at Bright Futures for Youth Lights On will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with a fall
carnival on October 24 at 3:30 PM. Activities will include a rock climbing wall, bounce house,
ball pit, art projects, tie dye, a scavenger hunt, a graffiti station, and much more. Food stations
will include a grilled cheese booth and homemade ice cream bars from a local ice cream shop. At
6:30 PM the site will go dark and everyone will "light up" the building with glow sticks,
finishing with a glow-in-the-dark dance party hosted by a local DJ. Up to 100 people are
expected.
Los Angeles, California: Emmanuel Morales, Woodcraft Rangers, 213-249-9293,
Students at George De La Torre Jr. Elementary School, in collaboration with Camp Woodcraft,
will participate in a camp take-over to mark Lights On Afterschool. The event will begin with
students learning camp songs, and they will have booths with activities including team building,
friendship bracelets, native seed planting, and making s'mores. Additionally, there will be a color
run for students to participate in, and healthy snacks will be provided. The event will take place
on October 20 at 3:30 PM. Local city council members have been invited and up to 160 people
are expected.
Oakland, California: Lateshya Johnson, Bay Area Community Resource, [email protected]
On October 13, the Afterschool Alliance joined Bay Area Community Resource and OUSD
Expanded Learning for the national kick off celebration of Lights On Afterschool at MLK Jr.
Elementary School. Students and families engaged in all types of sports activities, including
playing soccer with pro Amobi Okugo, rapping with Paris Night, and stepping with Kappa Alpha
Psi, plus performances and exhibitions by Destiny Arts African DANCE, Girls Leading Girls
Soccer, Scientific Adventure for Girls, Prescott clowns, Elmerhurst, West Oakland, Cheer, and
much more. Featured guests included Alameda County Superintendent of Schools L.K. Monroe,
California Department of Education’s Expanded Learning Division Director Michael Funk,
Assembly Member Mia Bonta, Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant and other
luminaries.
Oroville, California: Jayla Singleton, Boys & Girls Club of the North Valley, 530-720-5508,
The Boys & Girls Club of the North Valley is hosting a Lights On Afterschool event on October
20. Students will have options when choosing which activities to participate in. There will be
backetball and Ninja games, bracelet making, a bee presentation, and an origami presentation.
The event will begin at 5:30 PM and up to 35 people are expected.
Sacramento, California: Javier Rivas, City of Sacramento, 916-808-1573,
The City of Sacramento's afterschool programs will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with an
event titled “Lights On in the Meadow!” on October 20 at the Sam & Bonnie Pannell
Community Center. Parents and community members will tour the facility and learn about the
STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), arts, and other enriching activities students
take part in at the program. Teens will showcase projects they created using the program’s new
3-D printing machine. Community organizations including Sacramento Area Bike Advocates,
the Sacremento LGBTQ center, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, and the South Sacramento
Mental Health Collaborative will connect students and their families to resources. At least 50
people will attend.
San Diego, California: Derrick Evalobo, arc After School, 619-967-9400, muellercharter@arc-
experience.com
On October 21, Arc After School will mark Lights On Afterschool with two events that combine
health and wellness activities happening on and off campus. For the off-campus activity from
1:00 to 5:00 PM, 20 students will go on a 4-mile hike to see a waterfall in Rancho Penasquitos.
For the on-campus activity, staff are creating activities themed after exploration for up to 40
students.
San Francisco, California: Emily Davis, San Francisco Department of Children, Youth & Their
Families, 415-987-5959 [email protected]
In recognition of Lights On Afterschool, the San Francisco Department of Children, Youth &
Their Families (DCYF), its grantees, and San Francisco city partners will participate in the
Lights On Afterschool Lightbulb Challenge. DCYF is gathering “Lightbulb Pose” photos from
all over the city, and will piece them together into one powerful, unified video message about
San Francisco’s belief in the importance of afterschool programming. On the evening of October
20, the exterior of San Francisco City Hall will be illuminated in blue and yellow (yes, Warriors
colors) for Lights On Afterschool.
San Francisco, California: Adria de Stefano, Bay Area Community Resources, 415-565-9885,
Sherman Elementary’s Sharks After Dark will host its Lights On Afterschool open house carnival
on October 21 starting at 3:00 PM. There will be a variety of activities including: a STEM
(science, technology, engineering and math) booth showcasing their "earthquake table" and "will
it float?" activities; a cooking booth with a station for students to make and eat healthy snacks
like sunbutter ants on a log and homemade "farm cheese;” a mindfulness room with guided
meditation in a relaxing space with a galaxy projector; and a recreation teacher will be leading
minute-to-win-it challenges! There will be a photo booth, face painting, and music. Up to 250
people are expected.
Sylmar, California: Justin Thomas, PUC Community Charter High School, 310-729-1748,
On October 18, PUC Community Charter High School hosted a Lights On Afterschool fall
festival. There were games and entertainment, including a fall cookoff challenge showcasing the
cooking skills of the culinary club. Up to 100 people were invited.
Colorado
Castle Rock, Colorado: Denise Nichols, Douglas County Schools, 720-955-4380,
To mark Lights On Afterschool this year, Douglas County Schools celebrated with several
events. On October 10, the Cougar Club at Cougar Run Elementary held a raffle and family night
where families got to participate alongside their kids. On October 11, the Douglas County
Schools Board of Education celebrated their staff by recognizing them for their work &
dedication to the families with a video of the summer highlights at the Northridge BASE
program. Finally, on October 20 their Arrowwood BASE program is holding a glow party for a
full day and they will light up all three high school stadiums in Parker, Highlands Ranch, and
Castle Rock Colorado at 6:00 PM. Altogether, their 46 schools average 1300 attendance on a
typical night of after school programming.
Durango, Colorado: Kathrene Frautschy, The Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County, 970-946-
6376, [email protected]
On October 20 from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, the Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County will hold an
open house for Lights On Afterschool with the theme “Lighting Up the Future, One Club
Member at a Time.” More than 100 people are expected to attend. Parents will work alongside
their students on hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) projects,
including building and troubleshooting circuits using recycled file folders, repurposed Christmas
lights, painters tape and batteries. Program leaders will distribute glow sticks for safe trick-or-
treating.
Leadville, Colorado: Afterschool Ambassador Taylor Trelka, Project Dream with the Lake
County School District, 719-427-7003, [email protected]
Students in the Project Dream program marked Lights On Afterschool on October 11 by parading
from Lake County High School to the Lake County Courthouse, stepping off at 4:00 PM and
walking up 6th Street to Harrison Avenue. The courthouse was lit up for the event. Once there,
students participated in yard games, visited the Mobile Learning Center, and used coloring sheets
to express their artistic selves. Families and various local dignitaries, including the mayor,
participated. Students wore t-shirts that they tie-dyed in advance for the occasion.
Connecticut
Portland, Connecticut: Marla Berrios, Connecticut Network for Children and Youth, 203-483-
1846, [email protected]
On October 4, the Connecticut Network for Children and Youth hosted Lights On Afterschool
2022: A Celebration of the Field in Connecticut at YMCA Camp Ingersol. There were also
hands-on movement activities sponsored by BringtheHoopla, with students using hula hoops as a
tool for exploration, growth, and creativity. Participants relaxed with Full of Joy Yoga
instructors. Other programming included a keynote speech and a recognition ceremony for
afterschool staff and programs doing amazing work all across the state.
Southport, Connecticut: Coreen Ahmad, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, 203-259-4805,
coreen@wakemanclub.org
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool on October 20, the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club will
host events at two locations: McKinley Elementary School and the BGCA Southport Clubhouse.
Students will participate in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and crafts
literacy activities, including coloring lightbulbs and writing about what “lights them up” in their
afterschool time. Keystone Club volunteers will speak to students about careers involving lights
(e.g. electrician, light designer, etc). Healthy snacks will be provided. The event will take place
from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and 75 people are expected.
Stamford, Connecticut: Jerred Jones, Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, 914-329-8685,
The Boys & Girls Club of Stamford is hosting a Lights On Afterschool celebration on October 20
from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM to showcase its Mission to Mars program. The STEM (science,
technology, engineering and math) program encourages students to create a business plan and
construct a rocket for competition. The Boys & Girls Club of Stamford is part of Mystic
Aquarium’s STEM Mentoring program, which is currently operating in 26 states, Washington,
D.C., and Puerto Rico. Find out more about STEM Mentoring at
www.stemmentoringprogram.org.
Delaware
Milford, Delaware: Kelly Sipple, Milford 4-H Afterschool, 302-233-3539, [email protected]
On October 20, Milford 4-H Afterschool is marking Lights On Afterschool with a community
spaghetti dinner and canned food drive. Students will prepare a meal (salad, spaghetti sauces,
drinks, garlic bread, and dessert). They will also set the tables, create centerpieces, and plan
STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities for the evening. Parents,
administrators of the district, middle school, and high school, as well as community leaders from
the police, fire department, and city council are invited. The event will start at 5:30 PM.
Milford, Delaware: Marlene Duffy, Greater Milford Boys & Girls Club of Delaware, 302-422-
4453, [email protected]
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, the Greater Milford Boys & Girls Club of Delaware will
host a Light the Night open house from 4:00PM to 6:00 PM on October 20. The event will
showcase the program’s after school activities, including STEM (science, technology,
engineering and math) and art projects. Mayor Arthur Campbell, students, parents and teachers
are invited and as many as 100 people may attend.
Seaford, Delaware: Melissa Ockels, Western Sussex Boys & Girls Club, 302-628-3789,
MOckels@bgclubs.org
For Lights On Afterschool, the Western Sussex Boys & Girls Club will host its annual Trunk-or-
Treat on October 28 starting at 6:00 PM. Participants will walk around the club’s parking lot,
gathering candy from the trunks of decorated vehicles from businesses all over Seaford. Trees
surrounding the entrance will be lit with blue lights in honor of Lights On Afterschool. Other
activities will include crafts, car decoration contests, popcorn, Cornhole, bounce house, and
much more.
Smyrna, Delaware: Sheila Calhoun, Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, 302-547-0581,
The Greater Smyrna Clayton Boys & Girls Club will host its Lights On Afterschool Open House
on October 21 at 4:30 PM. All activities are meant for parents and children to participate in
together. There will be a basketball game, still life painting, and board games. Healthy snack mix
will be provided. Leading up to the open house, there will be other activities offered including: a
wacky invention challenge, colored light bulbs strung up in the gym and on the blacktop outside,
and virtual fitness classes.
District of Columbia
Washington, DC: Charlotte Steinecke, Afterschool Alliance,
csteinecke@afterschoolalliance.org
On October 20 at 4:20 PM, NASA will host a nationwide Lights On Afterschool watch party
featuring a pre-recorded International Space Station (ISS) interaction with astronaut Jessica
Watkins and Keke Palmer (Disney Lightyear), followed by panel discussions and Q&A with
NASA female role models. Invited guests include a teenager from the Million Girls Moonshot
Flight Crew. Watch parties will take place across the county at several NASA Centers including
NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC, Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD,
Goddard Space Flight Center in Wallops Island, VA and Marshall Space Flight Center in
Huntsville, AL. Numerous afterschool programs including Life Pieces to Masterpieces and
After-School All-Stars Washington DC will participate. The watch party is a collaborative effort
of NASA, the Afterschool Alliance, and STEM Next Opportunity Fund, celebrating afterschool
STEM programming.
Washington, DC: Afterschool Ambassador Daniela Grigioni, After-School All-Stars, 202-759-
1084, daniela@afterschoolallstars.org
Students at the Washington, D.C., After-School All-Stars program will mark Lights On
Afterschool at an event in Anacostia designed to demonstrate the power of communities coming
together during out-of-school time, and the impact such efforts can have on young people. With
volunteer support from the Dev Technology Group, students from Leckie Elementary, Kramer
Middle, Johnson Middle and Kelly Miller Middle Schools will create art and talk about a
community problem students want to address with a service project. Students and volunteers will
then design the project together. The event will run from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at 633 Howard Road,
SE, on October 19.
Florida
Fort Walton Beach, Florida: Desiree Hartwig, Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast-Fort
Walton Youth Center, 850-659-2409, dhartwig@bgcec.com
To mark Lights On Afterschool, Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast-Fort Walton Youth
Center will host a Halloween carnival on October 28 from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Activities include a
haunted house, fear factor challenge and Halloween-themed field games. All Fort Walton Youth
Center members and their families are invited.
Hallandale Beach, Florida: Afterschool Ambassador Nicole Carter, City of Hallandale Beach-
Hepburn Center, 954-457-2989, [email protected]
The City of Hallandale Beach will host a week-long Lights On Afterschool celebration.
Throughout the week, Lights On Afterschool lightbulbs will decorate the breezeway at city hall
and on October 19, the city commissioner issued a proclamation in support of Lights On
Afterschool. On October 20, the City of Hallandale Beach will host a Lights On Afterschool
Rally from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Activities include music, games, food, a STEAM (science,
technology, arts, engineering and math) demonstration and a social and emotional wellness
session by Mentally Fit.
Palm Beach, Florida: Afterschool Ambassador Suzette Harvey and Katie Jacob, Prime Time
Palm Beach, 561-732-8066 ext. 108, [email protected]
Prime Time Palm Beach, an afterschool intermediary that works with multiple afterschool
programs, is participating in three Lights On Afterschool events this year. The Palm Beach Public
Elementary Afterschool Program will host a Lights On Afterschool event on October 20 at 4:00
PM featuring activities that incorporate both STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)
and social-emotional learning. Students and their families will rotate between stations including
planting, team boat-building and -racing, and creating “elephant toothpaste” using dish soap,
hydrogen peroxide and yeast. Approximately 50 families will attend. Separate events will be
held at Grassy Waters Elementary Afterschool Program in West Palm Beach, and Forest Hill
Elementary Afterschool Program in West Palm Beach.
Tampa, Florida: Jaymie Johnson, Boys & Girls Club Tampa, 813-252-3947,
On October 20, the Boys & Girls Club Tampa will host a Lights On Afterschool fall festival
focusing on safety for the upcoming holidays. A deputy will have a safety table passing out
flashlights/ bike lights to Club members, parents will tour the facility and see kids’ artwork on
display. Outside there will be fun family activities and games, a bounce house and snow cones.
Community members from Greater Harvest Church will volunteer and provide services. The
event will begin at 3:30 PM and at least 100 people are expected.
Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia: Rachel Alterman Wallack, VOX Atl, rache[email protected]
On October 20 at 5:30 PM, VOX ATL will host a youth-led event for Lights On Afterschool. The
program will feature the release of results from a statewide survey of more than 500 teens across
Georgia, exploring their needs, values, and how they spend their out-of-school time. The
interactive event will feature digital teen self-expression stations focused on the 2022 election
and voting, as well as teen mental health. Youth will share their thoughts on a variety of topics,
and enjoy food, fun, and community building.
Buford, Georgia: Tania Ballou, Gwinnett County Community Services, 678-277-0927,
tania.ballou@gwinnettcounty.com
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, Gwinnett County Community Services will host its
annual Walk Among the Stars event on October 20 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Representatives
from Gwinnett County, local businesses and schools will sponsor movie themed booths for
guests to visit. There will also be STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math)
activities and a book give-a-away for patrons to participate in. The free event is open to the
public.
Midway, Georgia: Tracy Jefferson and Ariel Sullivan, Think Big Youth Organization, 210-589-
5423, arielyasmeen@gmail.com
Think Big Youth Organization will host a fall festival in celebration of Lights On Afterschool on
October 20 at 6:00 PM. There will be a pumpkin decorating contest, potato sack racing, corn
hole and a maze. The event will be at the Liberty County Community Complex, home to the
Dream Builders afterschool program. Students, parents and families, local organizations, the city
mayor and council members are invited.
Moody AFB, Georgia: Jodi Stagner, Moody AFB Youth Center, 229-257-7296,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, the Moody AFB Youth Center will host a Trunk-or-
Treat event for the military base community on October 21 at 5:00 PM. Students and staff will
decorate the program van and hand out information about the program as well as treats. As many
as 500 people are expected to attend the celebration.
Robins Air Force Base, Georgia: Tiffany Fant, Robins AFB School Age Program,
478-327-6834, [email protected]
Robins AFB will host a Lights On Afterschool carnival on October 20 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
There will be stations dedicated to activities representing the five core areas of the program -
health and wellness, fitness and recreation, community and leadership, arts and education.
Activities will include bounce houses, balloon pop, ping pong toss, cake walk, 4-H science kits,
Zumba led by a base facility instructor and much more. Dinner will be provided and as many as
100 people from Robins AFB community will attend.
Hawai’i
Honolulu, Hawai’i: Afterschool Ambassador Paula Adams, Hawai'i Afterschool Alliance,
On October 19, the Hawaiʻi Afterschool Alliance, along with afterschool programs, hosted a
Lights On Afterschool rally at the State Capitol rotunda with programming starting at 3:15 PM.
To kick off the event, participants waved signs at 2:45 PM along Beretania Street. Programming
included afterschool students showcasing their talents for arts, dance, STEM (science,
technology, engineering and math) and music, student testimonies and legislator remarks. All
participants received lightbulb buttons as a reminder to keep the lights on afterschool.
Honolulu, Hawai’i: Tosa Lobendahn, After-School All-Stars, 808-557-7414,
On October 20, the After-School All-Stars will host Lights On Afterschool rallies at each of its
sites from 4:00 to 5:00 PM. Students will create posters that share the importance of afterschool
programs and participate in sign waving. Approximately 100 students from the After-School All-
Stars O’ahu programs will go to the State Capitol to showcase their talents and accomplishments.
Waikoloa, Hawai’i: Tricia Rogers, Kama’aina Kids, 808-315-9584,
In honor of Lights On Afterschool, Kama'aina Kids will host a fun walk and celebration on
October 20 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Students and staff will participate in a variety of obstacle
courses.
Idaho
Declo, Idaho: Tiffany Kahalioumi, Spark Afterschool Declo, 208-647-8522,
On October 20 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, Spark Afterschool Declo will host a fall carnival in
celebration of Lights On Afterschool. Activities include fishing for prizes, donuts on a string and
mummy wrap. Burley Public Library is donating books to share with families. Dinner will be
provided and as many as 150 people are to attend.
Juliaetta, Idaho: Lisa Hadley, JES 21st Century Community Learning Centers, 208-276-3422,
To mark Lights On Afterschool, JES 21CCLC will host a Cardboard Arcade Night on October 20
from 5:30-7:00 PM. Guests will have the opportunity to play with cardboard arcade games that
the students created, including basketball, plinko, skeeball, hockey and a claw machine. There
will also be coloring stations, free books, and representatives from local businesses. Dinner will
be served. As many as 100 people are expected.
Kamiah, Idaho: Chantel Stamper, Upriver Youth Leadership Council, 208-743-0392,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, Upriver Youth Leadership Council will host an open
house on October 20 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Guests will learn about the K-6 program, tween
program, and teen program and view a video featuring students sharing what the afterschool
program means to them.
Illinois
Bethalto, Illinois: Kylee Short, Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto, 618-377-6030, [email protected]
On October 28 at 3:30 PM, the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto is hosting a Lights On Afterschool
fall festival and Halloween party full of “spooky” STEM (science, technology, engineering and
math) experiments, art projects, reading games and physical activities. Up to 60 people are
expected.
Chicago, Illinois: Devin Swift, Chicago Youth Centers 21st AVE site at Perspectives Leadership
Academy, 773-791-2708, [email protected]
Chicago Youth Centers will host its Family Tailgate Spooktacular at Perspectives Leadership
Academy on October 20 starting at 4:00 PM. This Lights On Afterschool event will feature
spooky activities including: “Thriller” line dancing taught by the school's dance team, pumpkin
carving, a spooky themed Culinary Experience with participants making food samples for guests,
and a student Zombie run game at which a civilian must outrun a Zombie to win prizes. The
program’s cosmetology participants will do all zombie makeup. Up to 60 people are expected.
Danville, Illinois: Emily Long, Project Success of Vermilion County, 217-649-8289,
On October 13, Project Success of Vermilion County hosted its Lights On Afterschool open
house. STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)-focused activities for students
included: elephant toothpaste jack-o-lanterns, vanishing ghosts, lava, and more. Crafts included
making halloween masks, carving pumpkins, coloring bags for trick or treating or as keepsakes.
There was also a bean bag toss game and relay race. The Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and the local
Fire Department were invited, with 50 people. The open house started at 5:00 PM.
Indiana
Elkhart, Indiana: Whitney Miller, Elkhart Brady Club, 574-295-6838,
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, Elkhart Brady Club hosted two events: an open house for
non-members to tour the facility and a Glow Party for current students and families. The Glow
party will include: table-top games, video games, i-wall, and pool tables. There will also be a
special activity to celebrate Hispanic Heritage, Loteria (Mexican Bingo), Latin Dance, and a
Taco Bar will be offered. The events were held on October 14 at the Boys & Girls Club of
Elkhart Clubhouse and up to 215 people attended.
Goshen, Indiana: Emily Keyser, Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County,
ekeyser@bgcelkhartcounty.org
On October 10, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County hosted a Lights On Afterschool event
to celebrate their site’s 20 anniversary and showcase some of the exciting activities students do
each day, including STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) projects, art and fitness.
Guests participated in the “Float Your Boat” activity and created a boat out of clay that floats
and holds weight. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County is part of Mystic Aquarium’s
STEM Mentoring program, which is currently operating in 26 states, Washington, D.C., and
Puerto Rico. Find out more about STEM Mentoring at www.stemmentoringprogram.org.
Iowa
Des Moines, Iowa: Catarina Hathaway, Hanawalt Metro Kids, 515-419-0066,
For Lights On Afterschool, Hanawalt Metro Kids will hold a family festival on October 25 from
4:00 to 6:00 PM with a “Monster Mash” theme. The event will feature a DIY “apple nacho” bar,
foam pumpkin decorating, music and dancing, a costume parade, a scavenger hunt, a punch box
with prizes, and bingo. It will take place at Hanawalt Elementary. As many as 100 people may
attend.
Sioux City, Iowa: Afterschool Ambassador Jenna Andrews, Beyond the Bell of Sioux City, 712-
202-3543, [email protected]
Beyond the Bell will celebrate Lights On Afterschool in partnership with Scarecrow Farms, a
local pumpkin patch, providing a free, fun-filled afternoon for students and their families. During
the week leading up to the October 20 event, students will work on projects expressing their
appreciation of afterschool programming. The resulting projects will be displayed at the event.
Local and state officials have been invited, as have the leadership of the Iowa Afterschool
Alliance. The event will run from 4:00 to 6:30 PM.
Kansas
Manhattan, Kansas: Jennifer Rodgers, Boys & Girls Club of Manhattan, 785-477-6532,
On October 22, the Boys & Girls Club of Manhattan and Big Brothers, Big Sisters will host a
Lights On Afterschool Halloween celebration from noon until 4:00 PM. Students and families
will go trunk-or-treating and participate in other festive activities, including pumpkin decorating,
face painting, fall photo booth, fishing activity, cake walk and much more. The Riley County
Police Department will provide food and snacks. The Boys & Girls Club of Manhattan is part of
Mystic Aquarium’s STEM Mentoring program, which is currently operating in 26 states,
Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Find out more about STEM Mentoring at
www.stemmentoringprogram.org.
McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas: Kimberly Sheridan, McConnell AFB Youth Center, 316-
759-4070, [email protected].mil
The McConnell Air Force Base Youth Center will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with an open
house on October 20 from 4:00 to 5:00 PM. The event will be an opportunity for parents and
community members to see the activities offered in the afterschool program, including hands-on
STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities that parents will complete
alongside their children. A meal will be served. 100 people are expected.
Kentucky
Campbellsville, Kentucky: Bruce Crouch, Taylor County School District, 270-465-4431,
To mark Lights On Afterschool this year, on October 20 the Taylor County Youth Coalition will
highlight their program during the high school Fall festival and homecoming football game. The
Coalition will promote after school activities and talk about drug and alcohol prevention. After
the football game, they will give away prizes to the students that participated in the game and
host an open discussion. Finally, they will have students sign a cloth Lights On banner to
commemorate the day.
Madisonville, Kentucky: Kelly Forbes, Hopkins County Family YMCA, 270-821-9622,
On October 20, the Hopkins County Family YMCA is hosting a family dinner night. The staff of
their food program will prepare a delicious and hearty Italian dinner for students and their
families to enjoy for an intimate gathering. Up to 40 people are expected, and the dinner will
begin at 6:30 PM.
Louisiana
Batchelor, Louisiana: Yolanda Jones, 225-240-9609, [email protected]
Pointe Coupee School District 21st Century Community Learning Centers Afterschool Program
is hosting a Lights On Afterschool celebration on October 26 from 4:15 PM to 5:15 PM at Upper
Pointe Coupee Elementary. Students and their families will participate in an art class together.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Chanquetta Gill, Urban League of Louisiana Project Ready, 225-394-
0185, [email protected]
This year, the Urban League of Louisiana Project Ready program will kick off Lights On
Afterschool with a press release and proclamation from elected leaders. A social media campaign
will kick off a few weeks before the national celebration that includes event graphics recognizing
community partners. There will also be a countdown, Facebook event, and students and parents
will lend their voices and share testimonials about their after school experiences with Project
Ready. Additionally, their two partner schools will be lit up in blue and a video will be posted
about their program.
Maine
Auburn, Maine: Lindsay Marchand, Auburn School Department's Before/After School Child
Care Program, 207-740-8233, [email protected]
On October 27, the Auburn School Department’s Before/After School Child Care will host a
Lights On Afterschool celebration from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Sherwood Heights Elementary
School. Guests will participate in a variety of activities in the dark, including glow in the dark
Zumba, glow painting and creating structures out of glow sticks. Each participant will receive a
take home treat as well.
Dyer Brook, Maine: Shannon Mathers, RSU#50 After School Program, 207-757-8206,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, RSU#50 After School Program will once again host
their trunk-or-treat event on October 28 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Students will trick or treat
with friends and school staff members. The Oakfield Fire Department fire truck will be on hand
for students to explore. More than 150 people are expected to attend.
Norridgewock, Maine: Amanda Landry, Mill Stream After School Program, 207-561-0762,
alandry@clubaycc.org
The Mill Stream After School Program will host a Lights On Afterschool dance party for its
students from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM on October 20. Participants are encouraged to dress in blue in
honor of Lights On Afterschool and prizes will be awarded to each student. Light refreshments
will be served.
Maryland
Baltimore, Maryland: Alicia Edwards, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore, 347-
749-2393, [email protected]
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, on October 21 from noon until 4:00 PM, Boys & Girls
Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore at Webster Kendrick will host a free fall festival, bringing the
community together for a fun fall day full of activities and resources. Guests will participate in
apple stations, pumpkin painting and a variety of games. Partnering organizations will provide
financial literacy assistance, mental health aid and much more. Students from Webster Kendrick
will showcase their artwork throughout the event and DOLE is providing food boxes to children
and their families.
Baltimore, Maryland: Tee-Kay McDonald, Village Learning Place, 443-768-5659,
On October 20 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, Village Learning Place is hosting its annual Spooky
Harvest event in celebration of Lights On Afterschool. The Halloween themed event will include
book giveaways from the public library as well STEM (science, technology, engineering and
math) activities, art activities, treats and much more. Approximately 100 people are expected to
attend the celebration.
Bowie, Maryland: Crystal Terry, YMCA High Bridge Elementary aftercare program, 301-957-
8206, [email protected]
YMCA High Bridge Elementary aftercare program will host a Lights On Afterschool celebration
on October 20 at 4:00 PM for its students and families. There will be arts and crafts, games and
STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities for families to complete together.
Greenbelt, Maryland: Katherine Bender, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center,
On October 20 at 4:20 PM, NASA will host a Lights On Afterschool watch party at Goddard
Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD featuring a pre-recorded International Space Station (ISS)
interaction with astronaut Jessica Watkins and Keke Palmer (Disney Lightyear), followed by
panel discussions and Q&A with NASA female role models. Invited guests include a teenager
from the Million Girls Moonshot Flight Crew. Watch parties will take place across the county at
numerous afterschool programs and several NASA Centers including NASA Headquarters in
Washington, DC and Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. The watch party is a
collaborative effort of NASA, the Afterschool Alliance and STEM Next Opportunity Fund,
celebrating afterschool STEM programming.
Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts: Aline Ricketson, Wang YMCA of Chinatown, 857.353.9344,
Several Boston area “Energy Superheroes” will join students, parents, and afterschool providers
at the Wang YMCA of Chinatown to celebrate Lights On Afterschool on October 20. The
“energy superheroes” – women working for local energy companies – will spark excitement
about energy careers by sharing their stories and leading students in a wind-turbine-building
exercise. The women are each highlighted in a new children’s book, Energy Superheroes:
Women in Energy Careers. The women’s participation is the result of a partnership between the
Afterschool Alliance and the Everyday Superheroes book series, which aims to connect local
women leading the nation’s energy transition with the future workforce. The event will begin ag
4:00 PM at the Yang YMCA of Chinatown, 8 Oak Street. Approximately 40 students will
participate, and parents are also invited.
Fall River, Massachusetts: Eloise Carrier, Citizens for Citizens, Inc., 508-675-2154,
eloise.carrier@cfcinc.org
For Lights On Afterschool, Citizens for Citizens, Inc. is hosting a grab and go event as parents
are picking up their children. Prior to the event, students and their families will be asked to
complete light bulb art and stationery stating the importance of after school services. Student
ambassadors will also ask parents to sign the after school petition. Grab bags full of refreshments
and health and wellness supplies will be available for pick up. This health and wellness event
will take place on October 20 starting at 3:30 PM.
Northampton, Massachusetts: Rabbi Jacob Fine, Abundance Farm,
Teens at Abundance Farm will participate in a Lights On Afterschool event on October 25 from
4:00 to 6:00 PM. They will explore food justice and how to build a more just food system,
examine social identities and how they relate to and intersect with the food system, work to
develop leadership skills and explore their capacity to change the food system. Activities will
include seeding, planting, harvesting, mulching, seed saving, and compost production, and how
to work outside in all kinds of weather.
Michigan
Coleman, Michigan: Lea Cozat, Coleman-SPARKS at Clare-Gladwin RESD, 989-386-3851,
lcozat@cgresd.net
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, the Coleman-SPARKS after school program is hosting their
90’s neon dance party on October 20. Students are encouraged to wear neon clothing so they
shine as SPARKS turns off the lights for their lights on event. Everyone will be dancing to 90s-
themed kidz bop music and there will be a black light painting station, karaoke mics for
everyone to sing along with the music, and other 90’s style games with bubbles and balloons. A
pizza dinner will be served. The event will start at 3:30 PM.
Detroit, Michigan: Samantha Wolfe, C2 Pipeline 21st Century Community Learning Center,
248-842-6959, samantha.wolfe@wayne.edu
On October 20, C2 Pipeline at University High School will host a family dinner party. Students
will showcase their knowledge of cooking alongside their families and then everyone will enjoy
the dinner party with staff from the school. The event will begin at 4:30 PM and up to 50 guests
are expected.
Detroit, Michigan: Eboni Rawlins, Click Afterschool, 734-772-7912, [email protected]
On October 19, Click Afterschool marked this year’s Lights On Afterschool with their first open
house, piloting their after school program at a local school. The open house theme was "Culinary
Creations" and will include the following activities: pumpkin decorating, a "build your own trail
mix" snack bar (including popcorn, chocolate, pretzels, etc) for families to take home, and finally
they are facilitating a “Supreme Chef Challenge” where the students will be making a dish in
teams with a pantry of different ingredients, live in front of families! They will also have a photo
booth where participants can take pictures and share testimonials about what after school
programming means to them! Up to 50 were invited.
Lincoln Park, Michigan: Michelle Hawthorne, Accelerate to Great, 313-573-8369,
The Accelerate to Great (A2G) afterschool program will celebrate Lights On Afterschool on
October 20 with an open house titled “Thrills, Frights, and Lights: An Evening of Spooky
STEM” from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. It will feature hands-on, Halloween-themed STEM (science,
technology, engineering and math) activities including creating lava lamps and glow-in-the-dark
slime. The event will also include competitions, snacks, and a Halloween Tree decorated with
positive messages from students about their experiences in the afterschool program.
Pontiac, Michigan: Autumn Kadlec, Center for Success Pontiac, 586-745-4495,
On October 20, students are participating in a “My Future is So Bright”' art project with their
mentors. This project will consist of students creating a self-portrait wearing a pair of sunglasses,
and drawing their goals. There will also be a glow in the dark dance party, and a pair of
sunglasses will be gifted to each student. The celebrations will span two days to host two
different cohorts of kids. Up to 50 are expected to attend and the event will start at 4:15 PM.
Minnesota
Long Prairie, Minnesota: Barb Graves, Long Prairie Gray Eagle Schools, 320-732-4500,
For Lights On Afterschool, the Long Prairie Gray Eagle Schools after school program will host a
“Movie Night at the Drive In” celebrating after school students. Students and their families will
receive free admission to a drive-in movie theater screening of Hotel Transylvania. A video of
students in the afterschool program will be shown before the movie begins. The event will take
place from 5:45 PM to 8:45 PM. More than 150 people may attend.
Mankato, Minnesota: Elaine Hardwick, Mankato Area Public Schools ISD 77, 507-387-1868,
Mankato Area Public Schools will host an event titled “Dakota Language Happy Harvest” for
Lights On Afterschool on October 20. A local Dakota elder will visit Washington Elementary at
9:00 AM and Hoover Elementary at 1:00 PM to teach common words in the Dakota language.
Students will complete a coloring book activity with Dakota language incorporated, which they
will take home to share with their families.
Saint Paul, Minnesota: Cathalina Young, Keystone Community Services, (651) 890-6903,
On October 18 at 3:00 PM, Keystone Community Services celebrated Lights On Afterschool
with an open house. Students invited their teachers and principals to join them to learn more
about the activities that take place at the program, and a nutritionist from the University of
Minnesota Extension will lead a healthy cooking demonstration. Students took partt in a “Just
Dance” activity.
Mississippi
Jackson, Mississippi: Afterschool Ambassador Monique Ealey, Mississippi Children’s Museum
(MCM) Launch into Learning Afterschool Program, [email protected]
To mark Lights On Afterschool, the Mississippi Children’s Museum Launch into Learning
program will hold a Play, Eat, Learn event for the entire community on October 18 at 5:30 PM.
Activities will include dinner, arts and crafts, a display of current afterschool student work,
STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) demos, and a parent/adult session to learn
how to support children experiencing anxiety and stress. All participants will receive flashlights
as a reminder of what the night is all about. As many as 200 people may attend.
Jackson, Mississippi: Alexandra Melnick, Operation Shoestring, 561-22-25930,
On October 20, Operation Shoestring will host a Lights On Afterschool party. At 3:30 PM,
elected officials and community partners will tour the program and observe the numerous
STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) activities offered. Representatives from
the City of Jackson and Mississippi Department of Education are among the guests attending the
open house.
Jackson, Mississippi: Yolanda Kirkland, Stewpot Community Services, 601-948-2941,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, Stewpot Community Services will host an open house
on October 20 from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. Guests will tour the program and see the activities and
projects students do each day.
Missouri
Ballwin, Missouri: Kayla Roath, Parkway Rockwood Adventure Club - Pierremont Elementary,
314-415-6623, [email protected]
On October 20 at 2:45 PM, the Parkway Rockwood Adventure Club at Pierremont Elementary
will host a dance party for Lights On Afterschool. To help “shine a light” on the importance of
afterschool programs, students will dance wearing glow-in-the-dark bracelets. School officials
will be invited to help celebrate and learn more about the program. As many as 70 people may
attend.
Ferguson, Missouri: Delah Jones, Teen Center for Excellence, 314-516-3596, [email protected]
For Lights On Afterschool, the Boys & Girls Club of Great St. Louis Teen Center for Excellence
will hold a celebration from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM on October 20. Students will rotate between
hands-on STEM activity stations and perform in a talent show. Ferguson Mayor Ella Jones will
attend from 4:45 PM to 5:45 PM to participate in the activity stations and open the talent show
with brief remarks.
St. Louis, Missouri: Mark Cowsert, Missouri Afterschool Network, 573-882-9665
cowsertm@missouri.edu
The Normandy Schools Collaborative Viking Quest 21st Century Community Learning Centers
Afterschool Program will hold a Lights On Afterschool event on October 20 at Barack Obama
Elementary School. The event will spotlight the importance of building students’ creative skills
through art. U.S. Rep. Cori Bush will attend and interact with students as they work.
St. Louis, Missouri: Jaime Downs, Boys & Girls Club of Greater St. Louis, 618-960-8435,
jaime@bgcstl.org
For Lights On Afterschool, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis will hold an open house
on October 20 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Parents will tour the program to see the projects they
completed so far this year. The event will include a pumpkin-carving contest and a vision board
activity. Students will also construct lanterns to release after nightfall.
Montana
Big Fork, Montana: Amber Mulder, ACES Afterschool Program, 406-837-5437,
The ACES Afterschool Program will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with an open house titled
“All About Our Animals”on October 20 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Students will introduce
parents and community members to the afterschool program’s goats, chickens, fish and
hedgehog and teach attendees about how to properly care for these animals. As many as 100
people may attend.
Bozeman, Montana: Amy Revious, Greater Gallatin United Way, 406-206-6971,
For Lights On Afterschool, the Greater Gallatin United Way held a celebratory dinner on October
18 at 6 PM ET. Parents, staff, donors and school board members joined for a ‘thank-you’ dinner
for their contributions to afterschool, and students participated in a “Lights Off ” gym activity. In
addition, afterschool students’ Lights On projects are on display this week at a local bank. The
display includes lamps created from recyclables, lanterns, and paper mache light-filled
pumpkins.
Nebraska
Alliance, Nebraska: Mara Andersen, ARC AfterSchool, 308-762-2201,
mara@alliancereccenter.com
On October 20 from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, ARC AfterSchool and UNL Extension office will host
a Lights On Afterschool open house and family STEM (science, technology, engineering and
math) night. Students and their families will participate in a Mars Landing challenge where they
will work in teams to guide their rover to Mars before time runs out. There will also be an escape
room where families will work together to solve clues as well as arts and crafts activities. Dinner
will be served. The city council issued a proclamation on October 18 recognizing Lights On
Afterschool.
Omaha, Nebraska: Stacy Phillips, Westside Community Schools Club 66, 402-452-1680,
Westside Community Schools Club 66 will host a week-long Lights On Afterschool celebration
with events each day at its 12 locations. On October 17, the club recognized staff members and
shared a video from staff about why they love their programs. On October 18, students decorated
sites with personal messages about why they love their program and on October 19, students
wrote cards and letters of encouragement to members of the community. On October 20,
Westside Community Schools Club 66 will host a Lights On Afterschool dance challenge for
each of its sites. Students and staff will create short dance videos to be posted on the club’s
social media platforms. The week will conclude with a Lights On celebration on Friday. Students
and staff will wear yellow in support of afterschool programs.
Schuyler, Nebraska: Kimberly Viquez, Schuyler Community Schools, 402-615-3549,
In honor of Lights On Afterschool, Schuyler Community Schools and Schuyler Chamber of
Commerce will host their fourth annual trunk-or-treat celebration on October 27 at 5:00 PM.
Community partners and local businesses will participate in the large community event. More
than 600 families are expected to attend.
Nevada
Las Vegas, Nevada: Dana Brown, 21st Century Community Learning Center, 702-799-0620
ext. 4005, [email protected]
On October 19 at 3:00 PM, the Las Vegas 21st Century Community Learning Center hosted their
Strawberry Festival. The festival highlighted the strawberries grown in their new hydroponic
units and included a tour of the farm stands and educational review of them. They also
spotlighted their Monarch Conservation Club, where students work to reduce food and water
waste, and create a habitat for the recently endangered western monarch butterfly. The center
hosted a Tasting Event, called "Tasting the Harvest" featuring sauteed rainbow swiss chard with
professional Chefs from the Wolfgang Puck venue at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. A kid-
friendly strawberry activity was demonstrated on creating hand-dipped chocolate covered
strawberries wearing tuxedos, and a professional chef from Boujee Bakery LV demonstrated
how to make mini strawberry shortcakes. Finally two student leaders presented on, "Why My
After-School Program Is Important To Me." There was a raffle for participants and swag bags
provided by the Nevada Afterschool Network. Up to 75 people attended.
Reno, Nevada: Kendra Stephanski, Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows, 775-360-2457,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, the Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows will
sponsor a coloring contest on October 20 from 3:00 PM to 5 PM at each of its sites.
Approximately 1,800 students attend the Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows each day and
all will be invited to take part in the Lights On contest. The sites will also participate in a
Halloween costume drive from October 10 through October 21 to help families in need. Boys &
Girls Club of Truckee Meadows is part of Mystic Aquarium’s STEM Mentoring program, which
is currently operating in 26 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Find out more about
STEM Mentoring at www.stemmentoringprogram.org
New Hampshire
Center Conway, New Hampshire: Heidi Belle-Isle, Pine Tree Elementary School, 603-662-
4171, [email protected]
In honor of Lights On Afterschool, Pine Tree Elementary School will host its annual flashlight
tag extravaganza on October 20 from 3:15 to 5:15 PM. The event is a favorite tradition that was
on a two-year hiatus due to COVID. In addition to the HUGE flashlight tag game in the gym,
participants will watch a video featuring students and staff discussing what they love about their
morning and afterschool program. Students will also share scary stories they wrote as well as
hilarious scary Mad Libs.
Londonderry, New Hampshire: Danielle Codagnone, YMCA of Greater Londonderry, 603-
437-9622, [email protected]
On October 20 at 3:00 PM, YMCA of Greater Londonderry will host open houses at each of its
six locations. Parents and families will tour the facilities and see many of the favorite YMCA
activities, including making friendship bracelets, dodgeball Scatter game and much more.
Programs will display students’ artwork and projects from their STEM (science, technology,
engineering and math) centers.
New Jersey
Atlantic City, New Jersey: Tracy Parker, Boy & Girls Club of Atlantic City-Teen Center, 609-
347-2697, tracy@acbgc.org
The Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City-Teen Center will mark Lights On Afterschool with an
open house. On October 20 starting at 3:30 PM, the club will host a variety of activities
including: a financial literacy workshop (including opportunities for students to open up a teen
bank account with Republic Bank), a yoga class with Leadership Studio - AC, cooking classes,
arts & crafts projects, and a basketball game for students and parents. Up to 50 are expected to
attend.
Hackettstown, New Jersey: Jenelle Clauson, Catholic Charities, 908-343-3429
jenellecc@yahoo.com
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, Catholic Charities is partnering with a local elementary
school to host a glow dance party on October 20. Starting at 5:00 PM, students and community
members can join the glow dance party or participate in a slew of other activities including: art
and STEM projects, a ring toss competition, and a glow station. The local and school
communities are invited.
Newark, New Jersey: Morris Hunter, George Washington Carver Elementary, 973-980-8808,
The students at George Washington Carver Elementary after school all-stars are marking Lights
On Afterschool with a weeklong celebration. On October 17 students recorded a video “shining a
light” on someone important to their reasoning for attending after school everyday. On October
18 they hosted a talent show "shining a light" on each of the students' talents. On October 20
they are "shining a light" on their community by cleaning up their school building. Finally, on
October 21 they are having a pizza party and games day (relay race, basketball, uno, etc.)
"shining a light" on the students, staff, & organization for all that they have done and will
continue to do. All events will start at 3:30 PM and the school community is invited.
New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico: Zulema Figueroa, The Boys & Girls Club Of Central New Mexico
505-688-5287, [email protected]
On October 19 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Boys & Girls Club Of Central New Mexico will
host a Lights On Afterschool carnival at Wilson Middle School. Guests will participate in
carnival style games and art activities. Panda Express and Pizza 9 are donating food for the
event. As many as 60 people may attend.
Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico: Rhonda Fowler, Holloman School Age Center, 575-
572-3753, [email protected]
The Holloman School Age Center will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with an open house on
October 20 from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. This year’s theme is “Around the World and their
Cultures.” Visitors will tour the program and learn about the various programs and services
offered. Rooms throughout the center will focus on a specific country and include activities
pertaining to that culture. Parents will work on “make and take” crafts with their children and
refreshments will be served. As many as 85 people may attend.
New York
Brooklyn, New York: Ashley Zaragoza, Grand St. Settlement, 347-543-6864,
azaragoza@grandsettlement.org
On October 20, Grand St. Settlement is hosting a Lights On Afterschool rally full of activities!
First, their student groups will present projects based on a cause of their choice. Aside from the
presentations, they will have student artwork on display. There will also be a student versus staff
game and a group DIY Halloween costume contest. Families and members of the school
community are invited, up to 100 people are expected, and the rally will begin at 3:30 PM.
Brooklyn, New York: Monique Jarvis, LEAP Presents Lights On Afterschool Youth Festival
Youth from LEAP Educational Arts center will host an event after PS100 won the Lights On
Afterschool poster art contest with their creation: "We Stand Create Play Together." The event
will include LEAP student performances, face painting, murals, Zumba and more!
Buffalo, New York: Maria DiVito, Building Brighter Futures Afterschool Program, Buffalo
Public School #6, [email protected]
For Lights On Afterschool, students will hold mindfulness moments, join team-building relay
races, play volleyball, enjoy dance breaks, stack cups, make calm-down jars, and more! Be Your
Best Self Through Sport and The Champion Project will spearhead the sports-based mental
health portion of the event and NCAA Division II men’s volleyball athletes will help run
activities, along with Donny Gleason, head coach at Daemen College. In addition, students and
parents will complete a new Strive for 5 Tracker Challenge by eating well, sleeping, getting
physical activity each day, drinking water, and limiting screen time, to receive participation
prizes. The event, which will focus on violence prevention as well as wellness, will take place on
October 20 from 3:00 - 5:15 PM at Buffalo Public School 6 during the extended school day
program.
New York, New York: Roy Baptiste, Beacon Program - Goddard Riverside Community Center,
212-799-9400, [email protected]
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, Goddard Riverside Community Center is creating a student-
made lighthouse art installation consisting of bricks. On the bricks, students will write why after
school is important to them, and what school activities they enjoy. The clouds surrounding the
lighthouse represent challenges after school programs face such as: lack of space, funding,
bullying, etc. The light shining from the lighthouse represents gains students make from after
school programs such as self-confidence, learning new skills, team work, etc. The lighthouse will
be created over time and will be completed on October 20.
Syracuse, New York: Derrick Bacon, Shonnard Street Boys & Girls Club, 315-579-8300,
The Shonnard Street Boys & Girls Club is hosting two Lights On Afterschool events. On October
20 at 6:00 PM they are excited to host two phenomenal community leaders to speak: Eddie
Mitchell, Founder of TEAM A.N.G.E.L, and Clifford Ryan, Founder of OG’s Against Violence.
On October 31, they are hosting their annual Halloween 3-on-3 basketball tournament in hopes
of keeping teens safe & off the streets. There will also be a candy Pit Stop, a safe community
space to hand out candy and check candy bags for kids. The basketball game and candy
giveaway will start at 5:00 PM. Both events are expected to gather up to 100 people.
North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina: Afterschool Ambassador Sil Ganzó, ourBridge for Kids, 980-272-
6022, [email protected]
Students, families, providers and stakeholders will celebrate Lights On Afterschool on October
26 with an open house. Local elected officials have been invited to join, as well. The event will
run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at 3925 Willard Farrow Drive. Prior to the event, students will create
art expressing their thoughts about their afterschool program, and prepare a newsletter and social
media campaign on the same theme – all of which will be presented at the October 26 event.
Ocracoke, North Carolina: Afterschool Ambassador Nancy Leach, Hyde 21st Century
Community Learning Center, 252-921-0372, [email protected]
Students and families on Ocracoke Island will celebrate Lights On Afterschool by parading from
their afterschool program site to the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse, which will be lit up for the
occasion. On their walk, students will wear glow-in-the-dark bracelets and carry flashlights and
candles. Prior to the walk, students will participate in a literacy activity – reading a lighthouse
story and then, with their families, creating art based on the story. Pizza will be served, and then
participants will walk to the lighthouse. The event is scheduled for October 20, starting at 6:00
PM, beginning at the Ocracoke School gymnasium at 249 Back Road.
Sanford, North Carolina: Jaslyn Walker, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Carolina, 919-498-
5459, [email protected]
On October 18, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Carolina observed Lights On Afterschool with
a mental health awareness event. Local youth health specialist, Alicia Reynolds, delivered a
speech covering topics around positive self esteem. The students participated in activities that
promote positive coping skills, stress management, and looking for reliable and trusting support.
Up to 70 attended.
Snow Hill, North Carolina: Heather Joyner and Allie Sample, Boys & Girls Clubs of the
Coastal Plain, 252-355-2345 ext. 307, [email protected] and asample@bgccp.com
The Greene County 21st Century Community Learning Center’s Boys & Girls Club will host a
family engagement event to celebrate Lights On Afterschool on October 20 starting at 5:00 PM.
Members will learn all about pumpkins, carve pumpkins with their families, and prepare the
seeds from their pumpkins to be roasted! The families will receive a container to take their
prepared seeds home and a recipe for roasting the seeds. Up to 30 people are expected.
North Dakota
Devils Lake, North Dakota: Cortney Shuley, Northeast Education Services Cooperative, 701-
520-9537, [email protected]
On October 18 from 3:45 PM to 4:15 PM, Northeast Education Services Cooperative will host a
Lights On Afterschool talent showcase. The event will feature all thirteen Northeast Education
Services Cooperative sites through photos and paper lightbulbs inscribed with personal messages
about the impact the 21st Century Community Learning Centers programs has region-wide and
beyond. Guests include representatives from North Dakota Gateway to Science, a collaborating
partner of Northeast Education Services Cooperative.
Fargo, North Dakota: Amber Carlsrud, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley, 701-478-
4066, [email protected]
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley will host a Lights On Afterschool celebration on
October 20. Youth at the program will decorate lightbulb artwork and send them along with
personal messages about the benefits of afterschool programs to Congressional district offices.
Fargo, North Dakota: Brandon Henn, YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties, 218-359-2313,
On October 20, the YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties will host Lights On Afterschool
celebrations at each of its locations. Sites will showcase the creative activities and projects
students are working on as well as highlight the importance of afterschool programs.
Ohio
Akron, Ohio: Bryanna George, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio, 330-786-7746,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio will host its
“Lights, Cameras, Action!” talent show on October 20. Students will showcase their many
talents before an audience of friends, family and community members. Pastor, Music Educator,
and Choirmaster Jonathon Turner will host the show.
Ashtabula, Ohio: Linda Coblitz, After School Discovery, 440-993-1060,
In honor of Lights On Afterschool, Quest 305 hosted “Electifying” Quest’s After School at
Lakeside Jr High School on October 13. Students, families, community members and local
officials toured the program and participated in three quest adventures: a household electronic
quest, an academic scavenger hunt and a cell phone electronic quest. Snacks were provided by a
local church.
Cleveland Heights, Ohio: Britteny Cyphers, After-School All-Stars Cleveland, 937-499-4696,
britteny.cyphers@afterschoolallstars.org
On October 31 from 4:30 - 6:00 PM, After-School All-Stars Cleveland will host a family
cooking class in honor of Lights On Afterschool. Students and their families will work through a
recipe with a professional chef. Families will use mathematics to adjust the recipe for the number
of people they are cooking for. The event will promote healthy eating and fresh produce.
Columbus, Ohio: Madeline Jobrack, ESL Afterschool Communities at North Linden
Elementary School, 614-315-1039, mjobrack@cscc.edu
On October 20 at 5:30 PM, ESL Afterschool Communities at North Linden Elementary School
will host a Lights On Afterschool celebration. Students will present models of futuristic and
sustainable houses they created with recycled materials, LEGOs and tools available at the site
and guests will tour the completed homes.
Elyria, Ohio: Kelly Rolen, Dewhurst Center, [email protected]
In honor of Lights On Afterschool, Dewhurst Center will host the third annual Light-Up the Night
celebration on October 21 from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Guests will take part in educational glow in
the dark activities. There will also be family photo booths, a raffle to pie a teacher in the face and
dance party. Refreshments will be served. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes and more
than 100 people are expected.
Marysville, Ohio: Sarah Crumm, BASE (Bunsold After School Enrichment), 937-441-6762,
To mark Lights On Afterschool, BASE will host its annual Uptown Marysville Scavenger Hunt
on October 22 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Participants will receive a “passport” and stop at
local businesses to receive a stamp and small prize or treat. Participants can also search for other
hidden items around town, as well as, take photos with any street art. Each accomplished task
gets them extra tickets to be entered into a raffle drawing. Students, families and community
members are welcome to participate.
Westerville, Ohio: Michelle Chapman, YWCA Columbus, 614-286-3242,
On October 20, YWCA Columbus will host a dance party at Wilder Elementary in honor of
Lights On Afterschool. The students will decorate paper lightbulbs to be displayed throughout the
school and will also take a field trip to The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology.
Oklahoma
Checotah, Oklahoma: Tiffany Hurt, Checotah High School and Middle School 21st Century,
918-520-7779, [email protected]
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, Checotah High School and Middle School 21st Century
hosted their "Wildcat Welcome" at the city sports complex. On August 16 they had vendors,
local colleges and military personnel attend. There were food trucks, live music, and sports
introductions. All local Boys & Girls Clubs hosted activity stations including: face painting, corn
hole, line dancing, and school supplies giveaways. Over 1000 people attended to welcome in the
new school year.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Madison Beeson, Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County
(BGCOKC), 405-795-5464, [email protected]
Elementary students at Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County in Memorial Park will join
Lights On Afterschool with a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fair. More than
100 afterschool students will meet with Energy Superheroes, building wind turbines, flying
drones, and experimenting with chemical reactions. BGCOKC aims to help spark the connection
between energy and STEM. Local employees and Superheroes from Oklahoma Gas & Electric
will share information about electricity and energy careers in Oklahoma City.
Macomb, Oklahoma: Shannon Browning, Macomb School, 405-250-4647,
On October 20, the Macomb School community will host a glow walk to celebrate Lights On
Afterschool. The walk, starting at 5:00 PM, will kick off at the Macomb Reflection Garden (a
park built in partnership with Macomb School, the National Park Service, Oklahoma National
Memorial, and NEEF). This healthy walk will "light up the town of Macomb" and will last until
everyone finishes. Following the walk, there will be a fall carnival. This event will promote
health and fitness as well as community involvement and support. Up to 120 people are
expected, and community and state leaders are invited.
Poteau, Oklahoma: Kim Allison, Pirate Quest - Poteau Public Schools, 918-413-5767,
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, Pirate Quest is hosting a Downtown Poteau historical
walking tour and a tour of the Hotel Lowrey Museum. Kids will get a passport and will receive
stamps for each historical landmark they visit and learn about. At the end of the event, kids will
present their passport stamps and receive a prize for going through the informational tours. Light
refreshments and gifts from local businesses will be provided. Teachers, families, and local
government officials are invited to attend. The event will be held on October 20 at 5:00 PM and
up to 300 people are expected.
Stilwell, Oklahoma: Kim Davidson, Peavine School, 918-575-0056,
On September 12, The Peavine School hosted an outdoor game rally to commemorate Lights On
Afterschool. There were a variety of games and races that students rotated between, to promote
health and wellness. They were served carnival foods like snow cones and hot dogs, and up to
100 attended, including the superintendent.
Oregon
Medford, Oregon: Afterschool Ambassador Crystal Ehlig, Rogue Valley Family YMCA, 541-
772-6295 ext.105, [email protected]
Students and families from the Rogue Valley YMCA afterschool program joined in a Lights On
Afterschool community fair on October 14. Students at each of the program’s sites created an art
display board to display at the event, including light-bulb art that had been painted, chalked,
bedazzled, turned into pumpkins, and in one case, turned into a lava lamp. Staff and volunteers
provided information about the impact of afterschool in the community.
Pennsylvania
Allentown, Pennsylvania: Ivelisse Dunham, PA Migrant Education Program, 610-820-6831
ext. 3101, idunham@millersville.edu
The PA Migrant Education Program in Lehigh Valley partnered with the Allentown Public
Library to host a Lights On Afterschool Open House on October 18. The Allentown Public
Library offered a storytime for children at the children's area. The Migrant Ed. Program had
LEGO and Robotics, KEVA Planks for engineering, STEM (science, technology, engineering
and math) contests, art contests and math games. They gave ribbons to migrant students who
participated in the Art Ques competition with the 4-H Club over the summer (their projects were
presented at the Great Allentown Fair). Finally, they offered wellness information and services
from these community partners: Sights for Hope (screenings to check children's vision),
Allentown Health Bureau, Star Community Health (Saint Luke's), Center for Humanistic
Change, Allentown Health Bureau, and Second Harvest. This event was open to the community,
and over 100 people were expected.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Dana Griffith, EducationWorks, 215-626-1971,
This EducationWorks' Lights On Afterschool event will be held on October 20 at Robert Morris
School, starting at 4:30 PM. Activities will include: a read-aloud story time with one staff
member and then with one student, a new books giveaway, and students will walk their parents
through a water testing experiment from their "Be a Biologist" curriculum. Up to 85 people are
expected.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Latoria Williams-Anderson, EducationWorks, 267-650-9989,
EducationWorks will host an evening of wellness celebrating Lights On Afterschool at Penn
Treaty School on October 20 starting at 3:00 PM. Students and their families will participate in a
photo/video collage activity showcasing current projects and staff will share upcoming events for
the year. The event will culminate with a host of wellness activities including: painting, seated
yoga, and affirmation development. Families of program participants and members of the school
community are invited to attend.
Tamaqua, Pennsylvania: Jennifer Colecio, LCCC SHINE Afterschool Program,
jcolecio@lccc.edu
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, the Carbon and Schuylkill County SHINE Afterschool
Programs will unveil its “I SPY Success!” video on October 20. The video presentation will
highlight the creative STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities taking place
every day in their afterschool program.
Rhode Island
Providence., Rhode Island: Roshni Darnal, United Way of Rhode Island, 401-519-0387,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, the Rhode Island Afterschool Network is hosting the
“Youth And The Stories We Share” breakfast on October 20 from 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM at the
Providence Public Library. The celebration will highlight youth voices and uplift the importance
of afterschool, a place where youth can be empowered. Playwright/composer Ricardo Pitts-
Wiley is the keynote speaker and U.S. Congressman David Cicillini may attend.
South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina: Angelica Dibble, South Carolina Afterschool Alliance, 803-254-
5454 x114, adibble@scafterschool.com
South Carolina Afterschool Alliance and the City of Charleston will host a Lights On Afterschool
celebration at City Hall from 6:00 to 9:00 PM on October 20. City Hall will be lit to
commemorate Lights On Afterschool. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued a
proclamation honoring Lights On Afterschool, recognizing the positive impact of afterschool
programs and their role in keeping kids safe, inspiring further education, and helping working
families.
Lynchburg. South Carolina: D. Naomi Edwards, Shiloh Project LIFT, 803-459-7463,
shilohproje[email protected]om
On October 27 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, Shiloh Project LIFT will host a Lights On Afterschool
celebration. The fun-filled event will include sack races, musical chairs, a photobooth, tug of
war, kickball game and much more. Prizes will be awarded. As many as 50 people will attend.
Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina: Trina Noonan, Kaleidoscope at Charles Pinckney, 843-214-
6792, [email protected]
Kaleidoscope at Charles Pinckney will host a Lights On Afterschool glow party on October 20 at
1:00 PM. Students and staff will celebrate with a dance party, Lights On photos, face painting,
pizza and much more. As many as 60 people may attend the festivities.
Sheldon, South Carolina: Debry Thompson, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Beaufort County,
843-473-5399, [email protected]
On October 20 at 4:00 PM, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Beaufort County will host a
Lights On Afterschool open house. Students will lead tours throughout the club. Guests will see
the many creative activities and programs taking place each day, including the Lexia reading
program and Money Matters program.
South Dakota
Chamberlain, South Dakota: Afterschool Ambassador Billy Mawhiney, South Dakota
Afterschool Network, 605-681-8349, [email protected]
On October 7, the Dignity of Earth and Sky statue was lit in honor of Lights On Afterschool.
Participants from the SoDakSACA fall conference attended the lighting ceremony and South
Dakota Governor Kristi Noem issued a proclamation recognizing Lights On Afterschool.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota: Shannon McIntyre, Pettigrew Kids Inc., 605-212-3754,
Pettigrew Kids Inc. is hosting their second annual Lights On Afterschool Dance-A-Palooza. The
event will be held in their gymnasium and will include popular and fun dance along videos,
yardgames, and glow stick party favors. Light refreshments will be served. Families of Pettigrew
Kids, Inc. students are invited to the October 21 event beginning at 4:15 PM.
Watertown, South Dakota: Matt Steiner, Boys & Girls Club of Watertown, 605-886-6666,
steinerma[email protected]
On November 3, the Boys & Girls Club of Watertown will host a Lights On Afterschool festival.
There will be a slate of activities including: a puppet show, laser tag, night at the museum, lego
building challenges, carpetball tournaments, light bulb message banner, Bubbles Stem Kit
activity and Sun Catcher craft. They will also recognize outstanding youth that have been doing
an awesome job in all the program areas and award a prize to the top ten club members with the
best attendance records. Families and community members will be invited and supper will be
provided. The festivities begin at 4:15 PM and up to 250 are expected.
Tennessee
Manchester, Tennessee: Jimmy St. John, Manchester City Schools - Afterschool Journeys, 931-
728-3412 ext. 2434, [email protected]
For Lights On Afterschool, the Manchester City Schools Afterschool Journeys LEAPs and 21st
Century Community Learning Centers programs will host three open houses on separate days.
The fairs will include: a talent show, student art displays, and space and solar system activities,
including a large inflatable planetarium, led by the University of Tennessee Space Institute in
conjunction with the Hands On Science Center from Tullahoma. The events will be held at
College Street Elementary on October 20, Westwood Middle School on October 24, and
Westwood Elementary on October 27. All events will start at 3:00 PM, and up to 300 people are
expected to attend each event.
Texas
Austin, Texas: Juan Diaz, ACE Afterschool program at Widén Elementary School afterschool
program, 512-841-0813, [email protected]
Students, families and afterschool providers at Austin’s Widén Elementary will mark Lights On
Afterschool with an open house at which parents will be able to see their children’s afterschool
program in action. Lemonade and cookies will be served as parents take in the range of
afterschool activities. The school is at 5605 Nuckols Crossing Road in Austin, and the event will
run from 4:30 to 5:30 PM on October 20.
Dallas, Texas: Yasmine Lockett, Frazier Kids Afterschool, 469-221-0704,
ylockett@frazierdallas.org
Students at the Frazier Kids Afterschool program will join in a Family Science Night to mark
Lights On Afterschool. The open house event is designed for parents and caregivers to self-guide
children through a number of experimental stations, thus supporting family-learning experiences
that encourage kids to continue pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)
subjects as they progress through school. The event will run from 4:00 to 6:30 PM on October
20. Approximately 50 participants are expected, including a local city council member. The
event will be at 4846 Elsie Faye Heggins Street in Dallas.
Dallas, Texas: Vonna Morgan, After-School All-Stars North Texas, 972-513-5258,
After-School All-Stars North Texas will hold a showcase for Lights On Afterschool on October
20 at 4:30 PM at Garcia Middle School in Dallas. To help “shine a light” on the free,
comprehensive afterschool STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program for
middle schoolers, students will build and demonstrate miniature solar-powered cars. Texas State
Representative Jessica Gonzalez will attend.
Dallas, Texas: Yanela Montoya, Dallas Afterschool, 469-777-0030,
At 14 afterschool program sites across the city on October 20, Dallas Afterschool will sponsor
Lights On Afterschool events in which local policy makers – state representatives, city council
members, and school board members – will tour programs to learn more about how students and
families are being served by their programs. The events will begin at 5:30 PM at the following
sites: Afterschool All Stars at Hector Garcia Middle School; the Jubilee Park Community Center;
Kids U – Solair; the Parks and Recreation program at Clinton P. Russell Elementary School; the
Parks and Recreation Program at B.H. Macon Elementary School; Readers 2 Leaders; Frazier
Revitalization; Trinity Athletics; YMCA at Lakewood Elementary School; Forerunner
Mentoring; YMCA at Arthur Kramer Elementary School; Heart House; and Behind Every Door.
El Paso, Texas: Enrique Garcia, BOOST Network, Boys & Girls Club of El Paso, 915-533-
2434, ext. 226, [email protected]
The BOOST network is partnering with the Boys & Girls Club of El Paso to sponsor a Lights On
Afterschool Celebration at the Club’s main facility at 801 S. Florence Street in El Paso on
October 20 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Participating students will enjoy a meal and receive presents
from local sports mascots, and the afterschool program will showcase an activity typical of its
daily sessions. The County Commissioners’ Court and the local city council will issue
proclamations celebrating afterschool. The event is an opportunity for children and families to
sample and enroll for afterschool programming. BOOST is collaborating on similar events in Las
Cruces, New Mexico, and Jaurez, Mexico.
Fort Worth, Texas: Robert Garcia, Fort Worth After School at Dunbar High School, 817- 815-
3077, [email protected]
The Fort Worth Afterschool program at Dunbar High School will mark Lights On Afterschool
with a literacy-focused event – a family reading of Gerald Kelly’s Please Please the Bees. The
author will join in the reading via Zoom. After the reading, children and their families will have
a chance to win prizes by answering questions about the book. In addition, the event will feature
snacks and games. The celebration will run from 4:00 to 5:30 PM on October 20 at Dunbar High
School, 5700 Ramey Avenue, Room A122. More than 25 families are expected to participate.
Houston, Texas: Janie Bostic and Brenda Ware, YMCA of Greater Houston,
On October 20, “Energy Superheroes” will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with the YMCA of
Greater Houston at Ridgemont Elementary School. Students will participate in activity stations at
which they will build a wind turbine, play basketball, color, and decorate superhero masks. Eight
“Energy Superheroes” from local company Pattern Energy will read aloud to students and sign
copies of the Energy Superheroes: Women in Energy Careers book. Sixty-five families are
expected. The event will begin at 5:00 PM.
Lufkin, Texas: Tamara Anguiano, Lufkin Independent School District, 936-634-0058,
The 21st Century Texas ACE- Lufkin ISD Afterschool Programs will celebrate Lights On
Afterschool at all ten of its program sites, with each event focusing on science, technology,
engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) activities. At each of the sites, students will
participate in an exercise exploring ultraviolet light. Events will be held at Anderson Elementary,
Brandon Elementary, Brookhollow Elementary, Burley Primary, Coston Elementary, Dunbar
Primary, Herty Primary, Kurth Primary, Slack Elementary, and Trout Primary Schools. All
events will run from 4:00 to 5:00 PM on October 20.
Utah
Utah, Kearns: Blanca Thompson, Gourley Elementary, 385-258-5298, [email protected]
On November 17 from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, Gourley Elementary will host a Lights On Afterschool
talent showcase. Family, friends and community members are invited to tour the program and
see the progress and projects students have made. Fourth and fifth graders will perform skits and
first through third grade students will sing a song during the talent show. Guests will also
participate in a variety of academic, social and emotional learning games with the students.
Salt Lake City, Utah: Afterschool Ambassador Angel Gomez, YouthCity, a Division of Youth
& Family, Salt Lake City, 385-495-8960, [email protected]
All seven YouthCity afterschool sites will come together on October 28 to mark Lights On
Afterschool at the Difference-Makers Service Project Lights On Day of the Dead Carnival. The
event will be at the Sorenson Unity Center, 1383 S. 900 W, Salt Lake City, from 5:00 to 7:00
PM. The service-oriented event will feature a campus cleanup project for participants, after
which food will be provided for students and families, along with carnival games and other fun
activities.
Vermont
Brandon, Vermont: Nancy Bird, RNESU-SOAR Afterschool Program, 802-247-3721,
On October 27, RNESU-SOAR Afterschool Program is hosting a Lights On Afterschool open
house from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Guests will tour the program and see the variety of activities
offered each day. For the past two months, the afterschool students have been learning about
Canada, United States and Mexico and guests will be sampling food associated with each
country.
Montgomery, Vermont: Renee Davidson, MES LEAPS Afterschool, 802-326-4618,
In celebration of Lights On Afterschool, MES LEAPS Afterschool program will host an open
house from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The program will unveil its new logo and invite guests to
participate in LEGO STEM activities, fitness classes and ukulele lessons. As many as 20 families
may attend.
Virginia
Culpeper, Virginia: Rachel Palmer, Kid Central, 540-829-2124,
rpalmer@culpeperhumanservices.org
On October 19, Kid Central marked Lights On Afterschool by hosting a healthy cooking activity
and a fitness activity. They planned to light up their downtown landmark, a Virginia LOVE
statue, in blue on October 20. Students, their families, and retired after school staff members
were invited to join in on the celebration.
Salem, Virginia: Kristen Hamilton, Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Virginia, 540-798-7923,
To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Virginia is hosting a
“Knockout Cyberbullying” event where parents will learn about how to protect their children
from the dangers of online bullying. Following this educational piece, food from Rock & Roll
Diner Food Truck will be provided. The evening will conclude with family fall wreath making
activity. The event will take place on October 20 at 6:00 PM and up to 100 people are expected.
Washington
Sequim, Washington: Heather Baker, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula, 360-683-
8095, [email protected]
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula are excited to host their “Come Be a Kid with
your Kid” open house to celebrate Lights On Afterschool. On October 20 starting at 6:00 PM,
kids and their families will be served a spaghetti dinner and get to experience clubhouse
activities from their child’s perspective. A plethora of interactive games are available to play in
different rooms: the games room will have a pool table, carpet ball, foosball, air hockey and
more, the art room will have crafts available, the teen room will host a ping pong tournament, the
tween room will have wii bowling, the library will have rubix cube activities, and finally the gym
will host a dodgeball game. Up to 100 people will attend.
Spokane, Washington: David Beard, School’s Out Washington, 206-336-6922,
On October 20 from 3:00 to 6:30 PM, School’s Out Washington will host a Lights On
Afterschool tour of local programs. Starting at 3:00 PM, guests will tour the Northeast
Community Center, then head to Shaw Middle School and complete the tour at If You Could
Save Just One Garage. The famous Spokane Steam Plant smokestacks will be lit up blue in
honor of Lights On Afterschool.
West Virginia
Ceredo, West Virginia: Pamela Shope, Playmates Preschool & Child Development Center of
Ceredo, 304-908-3368, pamelashope@aol.com
On October 19, Playmates Preschool & Child Development Center of Ceredo is hosting a spooky
science fair to celebrate Lights On Afterschool. Their theme is “To Grow and Glow With Quality
Afterschool Programming.” They will have multiple stations involving glow in the dark
activities. The children will be making their own glow in the dark lava lamps and learning the
science behind it in the program’s STEAM room, and there will be a special glow in the dark
game in the Lab. Kids will rotate through each station in 30 minute increments. They are also
having a glow in the dark dance party in the gym, along with a photo booth and face painting.
They plan to serve chili, snacks and a celebration cake. Students, families, local government
officials, and the local fire and police departments are invited to attend. Up to 90 people are
expected.
Charleston, West Virginia: Afterschool Ambassador Michael Farmer, Step by Step, 304-414-
4452, [email protected]
Students at seven Step by Step Community Learning Center sites will mark Lights On
Afterschool with rallies at their respective program sites. The events will offer youth a chance to
showcase the skills they learn and talents they develop at their programs, and send the message
that millions more children and youth need quality afterschool programs. Several of the events
are limited to students and their families, but three are open to the public, at: The Risen City
Teen Center, 1410 4th Avenue Charleston, 5:00 PM; the Kanawha City Community Center,
3511 Venable Avenue Charleston, 4:00 PM; and the Switzer Center, 900 Griffin Drive, 4:00 PM.
Fairmont, West Virginia: Afterschool Ambassador Shannon Yost, Flipside Afterschool
Program, 304-366-4550 x104, sha[email protected]
Students at the Flipside Afterschool Program will celebrate Lights On Afterschool at the Flipside
Festival, which will provide an opportunity for students to showcase their artistic abilities in an
interactive and exciting way. Alongside carnival games and snacks, parents and community
members can take in students’ projects, meet Flipside staff, and celebrate the difference
afterschool programs make in students' lives! The event will run from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at 221
Washington Street.
Wisconsin
Berlin, Wisconsin: Emily Wammer, Boys & Girls Club of the Tri-County Area, 920-361-2717,
ewammer@bgctric.org
On October 20 the Boys & Girls Club of the Tri-County Area is celebrating Lights On
Afterschool and the 25th anniversary of their club. They are hosting a neon glow party with a
bouncy house in the gym, and students will be able to make glow in the dark slime and birthday
party crafts in the art room. There will also be glow in the dark games in the gym including a
ring toss and tic tac toe. They will have cupcakes, popcorn and punch for refreshments. Up to150
people are expected, and the event will start at 4:30 PM.
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin: Karissa Schneider, Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac, 920-924-0530,
The Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac is celebrating Lights On Afterschool with a haunted
house for students and families to go through. They will also have food for sale and a community
partner trick or treat. For the trick or treat, the community partners who offer services for kids
and adults in our community will have a booth with their information and families will stop at it
for a treat and to learn more about what they offer! They expect a few hundred attendees, and the
event will take place on October 20 at 5:00 PM.
Madison, Wisconsin: Maureen Alley, Wisconsin Youth Company, 608-513-3962,
For Lights On Afterschool, the Wisconsin Youth Company, Madison Out-Of-School Time and
Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway will celebrate the importance of afterschool with a
walking parade around the Wisconsin State Capitol on October 20 at 10:00 AM. The parade will
begin at the Forward Statue at the top of State Street and follow clockwise around the capitol.
The parade will end at the Madison Public Library - Central for coffee and cookies.
Wyoming
Casper, Wyoming: Kate Foster, Wyoming Afterschool Alliance, 307-335-9922,
katefoster@wycf.org
On October 21, the Wyoming Afterschool Alliance will celebrate Lights On Afterschool during
the 2022 Cowboy State Early Childhood Conference in Casper. The Wyoming Afterschool
Alliance, Wyoming State Library and Wyoming Alliance for Environmental Education will host
two STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) trainings for childcare providers,
afterschool professionals and other attendees. The pre-session will be held on October 21 from
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Nicolaysen Art Museum. The breakout session will be held on
October 22 at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center. Both sessions will highlight the
importance of afterschool to communities in Wyoming.
