BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB EVENT: Celebrate the 15th Annual Lights On Afterschool

Once again, The Southernmost & Big Pine Boys & Girls Clubs will celebrate Lights On Afterschool. On the afternoon of October 23rd from 4-7 PM in Bayview Park, children and their families will join in the carnival-like atmosphere of the 15th annual celebration. Face-painting, a giant bounce house with slides, cookie-decorating, games and prizes, popcorn, Centennial Bank’s hamburgers and hot dogs, with sodas and water, the Fire Department, the Wildlife Center, Bahama Village Music Program, US 1 radio with Steve Miller and much more.

Launched in October 2000, Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates media coverage across the country each year. The Afterschool Alliance organizes Lights On Afterschool to draw attention to the many ways afterschool programs support students by offering them opportunities to learn new things and discover new skills. The event sends a powerful message that millions more kids need quality afterschool programs. On the evening of October 23rd , the iconic Empire State Building will be lit up in yellow to celebrate Lights On Afterschool. “We are truly honored to have the Empire State Building – a proud national landmark – as a partner for Lights On Afterschool for the eighth year in a row,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “Every day, afterschool programs keep the lights on for students, and every October, we honor and celebrate all that they do for children, families, communities and the country. To have the Empire State Building celebrate with us for another year is a tribute to the many ways afterschool programs support learning and expand students’ horizons, as well as to the Empire State Building’s commitment to students and families.” A large and growing body of evidence demonstrates improvements in attendance, behavior, academic achievement and more among children who participate in afterschool programs. Researchers have also found that afterschool programs encourage increased parental involvement – an important building block for student success!

So, please join us for lots of free fun, food, and frivolity!!