Starting an out-of-school time program

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Abstract

To be effective, a new out-of-school program must address existing needs in the community, secure funding and space, and recruit an enthusiastic, competent staff. This practice suggests recruiting community partners early on, and offers the program administrator avenues for securing grants, such as seeking Title One funds from public school partners. Excerpted from section five of the Corporation for National and Community Service's Making an Impact on Out-Of-School Time by the National Institute on Out-of-School Time. Includes resource list and online directory.

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Issue

Starting an out-of-school program takes planning and participation by the local community. 

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Action

Assess needs and connect with others.

  • Research existing programs. What "holes" remain, which your program could fill?
  • Survey community members (parents, school personnel, and the youth themselves) about their needs and interests with regard to out-of-school time.
  • Develop resourceful partnerships with community businesses, places of worship, local YMCA or Boys and Girls club, parent groups, and schools.
  • Form an advisory panel consisting of representatives from each community partnership.

Research licensing and liability. (See "Legal Issues: Licensing and Liability" Making an Impact on Out-Of-School Time, section 5, pp 26-28).

Design program and activity possible schedules. (See "Activities and Curriculum Planning" Making an Impact on Out-Of-School Time, section 5, pp 6-8, and "Out-of-School Time Programs for Youth Ages 10-14" Making an Impact on Out-Of-School Time, section 5, pp 17-20.)

Secure funding.

  • Research the possibility of obtaining Title One funds via partnering public schools.
  • Survey parents about their ability to pay fees for an out-of-school time program.
  • Contact local businesses about sponsorships and grants for specific aspects of your program.
  • Visit www.afterschool.gov to research federal funds and grants.
  • Obtain funds from more than one source.

Secure space and materials.

  • Negotiate with partners to obtain space for your program.
  • Draw up an agreement about which areas and materials may used by staff and children, and at what times of the day.
  • Buy or secure materials necessary for your scheduled activities.

Staff the program.

  • Develop job descriptions for all adult roles that need to be filled.
  • Post job announcements and recruit volunteers at community centers, colleges, and universities.
  • Carefully train all paid staff and volunteers. (See "Training" in Making an Impact on Out-Of-School Time, section 3.)

Market program to the community.

  • Create fliers, newspaper announcements, and encourage word-of-mouth enthusiasm via community partners.
  • Develop applications and enrollment forms and distribute to interested families.

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Citation

National Institute on Out-of-School Time. June 2000. Making an Impact on Out-Of-School Time. Washington D.C.: Corporation for National Service.

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Posted On

March 1, 2001

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For More Information

The National Institute on Out-of-School Time
106 Central Street
Wellesley, MA 02481
Phone: (781) 253-2547
Fax: (781) 253-3657

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