Shining a Light on Afterschool Programs

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It’s time to spotlight afterschool fun! CYC is celebrating Lights on Afterschool at all 11 of our Out-of-School Time (OST) program locations. From spooky season costume parties, to park clean ups and cool arts and crafts, we invite CYC children and families to have a blast while recognizing the important role afterschool programs play in our communities. 

Lights on Afterschool is a national holiday created by the Afterschool Alliance to highlight the importance of continued enrichment and safety after the school bell rings. Across the US, organizations and schools, including CYC, host events that showcase the activities, creativity, and positive impact of afterschool programs.  

Whether children attend a CYC Centers or participate in a CYC on Campus program at their school, they are stepping into a setting that holistically supports them and their families. Time and again, families say that OST programming like CYC’s makes a big difference, every day.  

Did you know?  

88% of Illinois parents agree that afterschool programs positively impact working families’ overall well-being. (Illinois After 3pm, 2025.) Seeing these benefits firsthand inspires CYC to design each part of our programming with intention, ensuring that children feel safe and cared for, and parents have peace of mind. 

CYC programs offer:  

  • Safe Passage, where CYC Staff members pick children up directly from school to be transported to Centers 

  • Healthy snacks every day, with meals provided for full-day programming 

  • Homework help and mentoring 

  • Engaging, dynamic activities that encourage youth to explore and imagine the possibilities 

As Anjel Williams, Director of Youth Development, shares: “By joining this nationwide celebration of Lights on Afterschool, CYC highlights the unique offerings at its sites—such as STEM, arts, wellness, leadership, and family engagement activities—while showing the community how OST programming empowers youth to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.” 

So, how did CYC celebrate the benefits of afterschool programming? Take a look at how each OST location welcomes children and families to a fall-themed evening! 

Sidney Epstein Youth Center

CYC on Campus at A. Philip Randolph Elementary

CYC on Campus at Perspectives High School of Technology

CYC on Campus at Sherman School of Excellence

A huge thank you to our OST Staff for your dedication, creativity, and for shining a light on the importance of afterschool programs! 

Looking for Out-of-School Time options for your child? Join us as we turn ordinary afternoons into extraordinary adventures! Click here to learn more about CYC programs and our OST locations!