News

I know I’m not the only one who thinks writing New Year’s Resolutions is much easier than keeping them. I always start the year off with a lot (A LOT) of good intentions that are going to make me happier, thinner, kinder, bolder, more productive – the list goes on and on.  If you do, too – check out these books to help you reach those goals and stay on track for success!

National AfterSchool Association’s 2023 Convention is almost here, and we are thrilled to announce this year’s sessions! In addition to robust opportunities to network, there are over 100 more formal opportunities to learn, connect and be truly inspired by fellow out-of-school time professionals. This year, we’re focused on building a future for the afterschool profession that promotes equity and sustainability within the field, and the sessions for NAA23 reflect that momentum.

Young people want to be heard. They want adults to hear their stories, consider their ideas, and value them as partners in finding solutions for their communities’ issues. At the National AfterSchool Association, we are fortunate to have abundant opportunities to work with adults who listen with open, eager minds. Camp Fire Evaluation Manager and 2022 NextGen Leader alumni Hannah Howard is walking the walk of an afterschool leader by serving on the Amplify Youth Voice Advisory Committee for Every Hour Counts. As a part of her role, Hannah recently attended the Powered by Youth Voice in Chicago, where youth voices were centered on advancing new directions for the afterschool field.

January is National Mentorship Month! Mentorship allows people of all ages to learn from one another, providing a path to knowledge transfer for education, work, and more. Mentoring exposes young people to caring, involved role models, and while out-of-school-time professionals often serve in that role for the young people in their programs, the relationships built between mentors and mentees are important for both individuals and organizations.