Minnesota Youth Deserve More Than Uncertainty

Help Keep Afterschool Programs Strong—Now and Into the Future

We Nearly Had to Close Our Doors.

This year, a federal grant that funds our afterschool programming was suddenly frozen—with no warning and no timeline. Just uncertainty.

Hundreds of Minnesota youth came dangerously close to losing the safe, supportive spaces they rely on after school.

These programs do more than fill time. They build futures.

Afterschool Works in Minnesota

• 93% of Minnesota parents are satisfied with their child’s afterschool program.

• 7 in 10 students show improved engagement in school.

• More than half improve their GPA.

• 81% of parents say these programs help them keep their jobs.

• Youth experience better mental health, self-esteem, and confidence through afterschool programs.

• Every $1 invested in afterschool programs saves at least $3 by improving academic outcomes and reducing crime.

• But for every child enrolled, three more are waiting for a spot.

We Can’t Let This Happen Again

Thanks to community voices and advocacy, the frozen grant was eventually restored. But this close call made one thing clear: We can no longer rely on unstable federal funding. We need community support to keep these programs open.

You Can Be the Difference

Afterschool programs are a smart investment—and a lifeline for families and kids. Please help us ensure they’re never put at risk again.

What’s at Stake

Your donation today helps us:

• Keep doors open at afterschool program sites across the Twin Cities

• Offer tutoring, STEAM enrichment, social-emotional support and healthy snacks

• Maintain safe, consistent care for working families

• Invest in the long-term academic and emotional growth of Minnesota youth

Across Minnesota, more than 9,000 students benefited from afterschool programs supported by federal pandemic relief funds. As those funds run out, programs like ours are left in a vulnerable position—and we need your help to keep kids learning, safe and thriving.