Vancouver after-school programs get boost

Vancouver is one of seven cities selected to participate in phase two of a National League of Cities project to improve and expand after-school programs, it was announced this morning.

Vancouver will formalize an entity to coordinate after-school programs, assess existing programs, identify gaps in services, establish common standards for program activities and develop an outreach campaign that will increase community support for after-school programs.

“I strongly believe our community has a responsibility to provide safe, educational and enjoyable activities for our young people,” said Mayor Royce Pollard in a statement. “For some, the after-school hours provide the chance to be with friends, play sports, pursue interests and engage in challenging activities. But for many home alone, the after-school hours present serious risks for substance abuse, crime, violence and other at-risk behaviors. It is our responsibility as community leaders to do all we can to make sure our children are presented with greater opportunities and fewer risks.”

The other cities selected for phase two of this project are: Albany, N.Y.; Morgantown, W.Va.; Omaha, Neb.; Tampa, Fla.; Tulsa, Okla. and St. Paul, Minn.