WHEREAS, afterschool programs provide safe and engaging learning experiences that aid in child development while supporting working families by ensuring their children are safe and productive after the regular school day ends; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina has provided significant leadership in the area of community involvement in the education and well-being of our youth, grounded in the principle that quality afterschool programs are key to helping our children become successful adults; and
WHEREAS, Lights On Afterschool, the national celebration of afterschool programs held this year on October 22, 2020, promotes the importance of quality afterschool programs in the lives of children, families, and communities; and
WHEREAS, millions of families report that they would enroll their child in an afterschool program if one were available; and
WHEREAS, during the COVID-19 pandemic, afterschool programs have supported youth by providing virtual programming to keep kids engaged; caring for children of essential workers; providing meals and learning supports; and checking in on youth and their families to ensure their well-being; and
WHEREAS, many afterschool programs across the country are facing severe funding shortfalls, forcing them to close their doors and turn off the lights; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina is committed to investing in the health and safety of all young people by providing expanded learning opportunities that will help close the achievement gap and prepare young people to be ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 22, 2020, as “KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON AFTER SCHOOL DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.