Quality after-school programs are vital to positive youth development and serve as a resource for parents. Across America, 1 in 5 kids are alone and unsupervised from 3 to 6 p.m. These are the hours when juvenile crime and victimization peak—and many parents are still at work. When children have no place to go after school, they miss out on valuable learning opportunities, parents lose 8 days of work, and businesses lose up to $300 billion a year (The Afterschool Alliance). There is extensive research that proves students who attend after-school programs receive better grades and improve essential skills to include communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

After school programs like Anchors Up! (AU) focus on social, emotional, and relationship skill development. Anchors Up enables students to learn about themselves, how to develop healthy relationships, develop goals for successful futures, and focus on wellness. The program utilizes a curriculum that understands students face many stressors and are resilient. Facilitators are trained to create a space that is safe and supportive. The AU program uses a Positive Youth Development framework focusing on possibilities and all opportunities available to students in Bladen County. We avoid highlighting negative statistics realizing that our expectations will assist students in embracing the fact that their futures are bright and anything they dream is possible!

The benefits of after-school programming to parents are tremendous. The After School Alliance notes that for many parents, afterschool programs help them work without worry and balance their schedule. Surveys results indicated:

• 8 in 10 parents say afterschool programs give them peace of mind and help them keep their jobs.
• Close to 3 in 4 parents believe afterschool reduces the likelihood that kids will engage in risky behaviors.
• 5 in 6 parents support public funding for afterschool programs.

Anchors Up! activities also engage parents and trusted adults teaching them how to support their teens as they chart a path to success. 

Learn more about our 5-week programs and enroll your middle or high school student.