Empowering Georgia's Youth: A Day at the Capitol for After School Initiatives

On Wednesday, February 14th, our organization joined the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network and youth development nonprofits from across the state for Afterschool Day at the Capitol. This uplifting event offered us the opportunity to meet with legislators in Atlanta and advocate for increased funding and support of vital afterschool initiatives. Now more than ever, our youth depend on these inspiring programs to help empower them to become compassionate leaders.

Led by our Vice President of Development, Ty Woods, and Curriculum and Training Specialist, India Mason, we showcased the transformational impact of high-quality afterschool and summer learning programs under the Gold Dome. Our team met with several state senators and representatives to discuss the growing need for youth enrichment programs statewide.

With budgets getting tighter each year, we depend on our legislators to fight for Georgia’s future innovators and change-makers by ensuring funding for exceptional learning opportunities outside the classroom. Studies show that students who regularly attend high-quality afterschool programs not only perform better academically but also display improvements in school attendance, behavior, and engagement. These enriching programs cultivate the talents and interests of each student – from technology and arts to civic leadership and beyond.

If we want to see our youth thrive as empowered, passionate leaders, then we must invest in their growth today. By supporting organizations like the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network, our legislators can expand access to programs that are advancing equity and nurturing potential in communities statewide. It takes all of us working together to create a Georgia where every child, regardless of background, has a chance to pursue their dreams.