Toolkit

The Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week Toolkit
Templates and graphics to help you spread the word and celebrate!

Graphics and Logos
Downloadable images
Please note: The AfterSchool Professionals Appreciation Week logo may not be altered in any way.

Sample Social Media Posts

For Programs and Partners

April 22-26, 2019 is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week! Afterschool programs make a difference in the lives of young people. Tell us how you show your appreciation for the afterschool professionals in your life. Be sure to use the hashtag #heartofafterschool so we can see how you celebrate.

We celebrate Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week because afterschool professionals are the #HeartofAfterschool at our program. Thank you for all you do to help youth succeed!

For Individuals

10.2 million children in the U.S. participate in afterschool programs. I appreciate the afterschool professionals who make a difference in the lives of young people in my community. #HeartofAfterschool

Video
Share the Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week videos. Two to choose from!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCc-n_7hd-0&t=23s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gl3vgMa9dcg

Sample Announcement
Email or include the following in your newsletter to families, staff and stakeholders:

[Insert your program/organization name] is joining with the National AfterSchool Association to celebrate the professionals that are at the heart of afterschool programs during "Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week" April 22-26, 2019.

We are joining the effort because we believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the lives of young people. We encourage you to join us in thanking the afterschool professionals in your life. Here are some ideas on how you can show your appreciation:

• Declare on social media: "I believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the lives of young people. #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.For more resources and information check out www.heartofafterschool.com.

Sample Press Release
Download a press release to promote Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week.

Flyers

"Recognition" flyers to print and post in your program/setting. One is generic and one is customizable where you can add your own image! Download the generic flyer. Download the customizable flyer.

"Ways to Celebrate" flyer to print and share celebration ideas. Download.

Sample Talking Points
Use these talking points when communicating with families, community leaders and the media.

Sample proclamation for local and state offices

Whereas the citizens of [INSERT STATE/CITY] firmly believe that afterschool professionals (those who work with children and youth in a wide variety of program settings to provide extended learning opportunities during out-of-school hours) have a positive effect on our children, families, community and businesses.

Whereas afterschool professionals are a decisive element in children’s’ access high-quality relationships and expanded opportunities beyond what they have access to at school and home, which they need to reach their full potential.

Whereas afterschool professionals deserve appreciation for all that they do to for children to enhance their education, promote physical and emotional health, provide a safe environment and expose them to new experiences.

Whereas [INSERT STATE/CITY] is committed to supporting the professionals who provide expanded learning opportunities that will help close the achievement gap and prepare young people to compete in the global economy.

Now, therefore, I [OFFICIAL’S NAME AND TITLE] do hereby proclaim April 22-26, 2019 as Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week in [INSERT CITY/STATE], and urge the citizens of [INSERT CITY/STATE] to join me in this special observance with appropriate events and displays of appreciation.

______________________________________________________                           [AFFIX SEAL]
Governor / Mayor

Purchase Merchandise
Show your afterschool pride! Visit the Afterschool Swag Shop for afterschool spirit merchandise.