Afterschool programs often find it necessary to combine several funding sources in order to sustain their efforts. However, the philosophical and administrative differences between these sources can hinder this approach. To date, few afterschool programs have successfully integrated funding from the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) and the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) - two of the largest Federal funding sources for afterschool programs. This brief describes the rationale for increased coordination, outlines the challenges involved, and discusses emerging strategies for states to consider that can enable programs to effectively utilize both sources. Also available as a

In 2004, the Institute of Museum and Library Services convened a conference and workshop examining the intersections of museums, libraries, and K-12 education. The resulting report captures the key issues that emerged at the workshop, highlights seminal project and partnership examples, and provides some common language around a vision for how museum/school/library collaborations can contribute to a learning society.

Creating and sharing a common vision is a critical element for the success of afterschool programs. This tool is intended to help the growing number of new afterschool partnerships create a shared vision for their work. It contains information to educate partners on what a vision statement is and the purpose it serves; provides two alternative techniques for creating a vision; and includes a variety of considerations for planning teams as they finalize a vision statement. Also available as a

As a part of the Soldier/GSA Child Care Subsidy Initiative, the U.S. Army and GSA have agreed to partner to make child care more affordable to Active Duty Army Personnel. Visit this site for more information on how this initiative can be helpful in your community.