Harrisonburg | Oct. 23 event highlights importance of afterschool time

Kids are focused on learning during the school day. Afterschool is a critical time, where what happens during the school day can either be undone somewhat, or built upon.

A group in Harrisonburg that goes by the name Out-of-School Learning Coalition aims to make afterschool a building time.

“These programs strengthen families and our community by giving every child a place to learn, grow, and shine,” Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed said of the coalition, which is hosting a free community celebration, Lights On: Afterschool Party, on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lucy F. Simms Center, which is located at 620 Simms Ave., Harrisonburg.

Families, educators and neighbors are invited to experience what out-of-school time looks and feels like for young people in Harrisonburg.

The festival-style gathering will fill the center with interactive booths, games, prizes, food, and conversation. Local organizations will share resources and hands-on activities that highlight how programs support students after the school day ends.

The event is open to the public and designed for all ages.

The celebration is part of Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide observance that lifts up the impact of afterschool and summer learning.

Out-of-school programs give young people a safe place to belong. They also help them build social and emotional skills, explore interests and future careers, and connect with caring adults.

“At On the Road, we see Lights On: Afterschool as a celebration of our youth and the village that stands with them. Together, our organizations create spaces where young people feel can thrive and have opportunities we needed as young people,” said Emani Morse, co-CEO of On The Road Collaborative.

“The Gus Bus is more than a mobile classroom program. It is a bridge to opportunity, creativity, and academic success for children across Harrisonburg,” said Rachel Gagliardi, program dDirector of The Gus Bus. “We are proud to celebrate Lights On: Afterschool and the vital role after-school programs play in nurturing young minds and strengthening communities.”

Coalition members include On The Road Collaborative, Boys & Girls Clubs of Harrisonburg & Rockingham, The Gus Bus, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Harrisonburg–Rockingham County and the Virginia Partnership for Out of School Time.