In Reach, Inc.
Celebrates the Heart of Afterschool Programs During the First Ever
“AFTERSCHOOL
PROFESSIONALS APPRECIATION WEEK”
April 25-29, 2016
Prince George’s
County, MD, April 25, 2016 – In Reach, Inc., is joining with the National AfterSchool Association (NAA) to celebrate the professionals that are at the heart
of afterschool programs during the first ever “Afterschool
Professionals Appreciation Week”
April 25-29, 2016.
“We believe Afterschool professionals
make a difference in the life of a child,” said Executive Director Toni Smith
“We encourage everyone to join us this week in thanking the afterschool
professionals in their lives.”
Why is it important to recognize Afterschool Professionals?
An estimated 10.2 million
children participate in afterschool programs each year. Today, afterschool
programs are viewed as much more than just childcare. They are widely credited
as the way to enhance education in STEM, literacy, the arts, social and emotional
learning, health and wellness, and more. With that demand comes increased
responsibility on the estimated 850,000 of professionals who are making a
difference in the lives of our children.
What is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week?
Afterschool Professionals
Appreciation Week is a joint effort of community partners, afterschool
programs, youth and child care workers, and individuals who have committed to
dedicating time to recognize and appreciate those who work with youth during
out-of-school hours. The week is marked by celebrations and public relations
efforts to encourage people to thank afterschool professionals serving children
in programs and organizations across the nation.
Who is an Afterschool Professional?
An Afterschool Professional
is someone who works with children and youth in diverse school and
community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning
opportunities and care during out-of-school hours. Currently, there is an
estimated 850,000 afterschool professionals in the US.
How can I thank an Afterschool Professional?
--Declare
on social media: “I believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the
life of a child. #heartofafterschool”
--Give a hand-written
card from you and/or your child to the afterschool professional in your life.
--Send an
email to an afterschool professional’s supervisor describing why that person is
appreciated.
--Make treats
for the staff at your afterschool program.
When was Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week introduced?
Afterschool Professionals
Appreciation Week was announced during the NAA Annual Convention in Orlando,
Florida, on March 20, 2016, by NAA President & CEO Gina Warner.
For more information about
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week visit: http://www.heartofafterschool.com. For more information about In Reach visit www.inreachinc.org or call 301.357.8433.
