NextUp hosted Lights On Afterschool – Richmond on October 19, 2024 in partnership with Communities in Schools Richmond MLK Harvest Fest. 500+ RPS youth and families enjoyed games, meals and snacks, activities, and messages from special guests and community representatives including:
60+ out-of-school time programs and community organizations showcased their services and connected with youth through games, bounce houses, photobooths, video game stations, prizes, and more. Many of these afterschool programs operate in Richmond Public Middle Schools, making the transition from students’ last class of the day to their afterschool program seamless.
Many local and national voices are advocating for greater access to after-school programs, including NextUp CEO, Dr. Traymanesha Lamy, who states, “NextUp is proud to celebrate the expanded learning time opportunities serving as safe spaces for Richmond youth. We know after school programs support positive youth development, excite young people about learning, and increase graduation rates. There’s no better event than Lights On Afterschool to help unite families with out-of-school time programs and celebrate the impact providers and programs are having on our city.”
Lights On Afterschool ambassador and hip-hop star, Usher, also shared, “Every child should have a place that sparks their interests and helps them find their passions and purpose. As this year’s Honorary Chair of Lights On Afterschool, I hope my voice can help amplify the need to close the gap for the 25 million youth who still need afterschool services.”
Lights On Afterschool is a nationwide initiative led by the Afterschool Alliance, and it is brought to life locally by NextUp in partnership with Communities in Schools Richmond, Higher Achievement, the Mayor’s Youth Academy, the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Richmond, Richmond Parks and Recreation, Girls on the Run, the YMCA of Greater Richmond and all other programs and community organizations in attendance.
_
NextUp is an afterschool intermediary and nonprofit powered by a network of out-of-school time (OST) providers and leaders who share a commitment to ensuring that all Richmond youth have access to quality learning opportunities beyond the classroom. NextUp coordinates efforts and resources into a cohesive system so that schools, communities, and program providers can offer high-quality activities that benefit as many young people as possible, while reducing barriers to accessing these programs.
NextUp RVA is a nonprofit organization helping youth discover their talents and build positive relationships. It does this by managing a strong system of accessible out-of-school time programs delivered in schools and across the city. When youth participate in quality out-of-school time programs, they learn new skills, find out what they are good at, gain confidence and are engaged learners.
© Copyright 2023, NextUp RVA.
