Our goal: Youth are successful in learning

Annually, youth spend only 20 percent of their waking hours in school. Youth who spend their time engaged in meaningful, high-quality activities with caring adults when they are not in school are more likely to graduate from high school, not use alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, not become victims of violence or end up as teen parents. Estimates show only 16 percent of children, in households where both parents work, are involved in an after-school program.

United Way invests in programs that emphasize the importance of learning as a 24/7 priority involving youth in their out-of-school time. The fundamental components of these strategies serve as the building blocks for the development of successful, productive residents. Some program components are leadership training, access to technology, increasing family engagement in the lives of their youth, and exposure to the arts and recreation and opportunities to explore careers. Youth also have a chance to be a part of the larger community by contributing through youth-led community service projects.

After-School

One program model in our after-school strategy is the After-School All-Stars. The After-School All-Stars provides opportunities for young people to participate in sports, educational, and cultural and community enrichment programs, building self-esteem and confidence. It focuses on improving the whole child, nurturing the mind, body and spirit, through programs that incorporate independent learning, academics and enrichment activities.

2007–08 Investments in youth

United Way is investing more than $9.2 million in 109 programs to ensure youth are successful in learning.

Strategy areas:

After school	69 programs, $6.9 (million)
Family engagement	12 programs, $1.2
Youth leadership	28 programs, $1.1
Total investment	$9.2 million

Stats:

	Every dollar invested in after-school time saves $7 in future remedial education, welfare and prison costs.
	Studies show that when parents are involved in education, students avoid high-risk behavior and have better grades.
	Approximately 30 percent of Georgia students do not graduate on time.
	70 percent, or 560,000, metro Atlanta youth, 6–17 reside in a home where both parents work.
	The gap between parent and a young person's schedule can amount to 20–25 hours a week of unsupervised time.
	Some 21 percent of parents say they would enroll their child in a quality after-school program if one were available.