When I was younger I took part in a program called Youth in Action. This program gave me a stipend that I looked forward to every month. Most importantly it was a place where I could bond with my friends and I really liked the feeling of community and support we had together. The program allowed me to take part in important activities and made me feel appreciated for my hard work.
The adults in Youth in Action spent time with us as mentors and guides. They helped us with activities and supported our growth. Their presence helped create a safe and supportive experience.
The McKamey and Restler article struck a chord with me because it shows that Out of School Time (OST) programs like Youth in Action do more than provide a place for kids to go after school. They also help young people build friendships, learn new skills and feel supported. My experience shows this because the program provided me with a sense of purpose and a supportive community beyond my regular school hours.
Article: "The White House Said After-School Programs Don't Help Kids. Here's What the Research Says" (Time Magazine)
This article talks about the recent discussions about money for after-school programs. It shares research that shows these programs help students a lot by improving their grades and helping them get along better with others. It backs the idea that out-of-school time programs are important for helping young people grow, similar to what McKamey and Restler talked about.
The article and the work by McKamey and Restler highlight that Out-of-School Time (OST) programs offer valuable places for young people to develop, make friends and get help that they might not find in other settings. This link shows how important programs like Youth in Action are in the real world as they have made a positive difference in my life.
YDEV has worked extensively with YIA over the years. I am so glad you were a part of that world.
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