We celebrated the 26th annual Lights On Afterschool with San Francisco’s Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and partners across the city. This annual event honors the essential role afterschool programs play in young people’s lives — not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and creatively.
Afterschool programs offer young people space to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build relationships with adults who consistently show up and care deeply. These programs expand learning beyond the classroom and create communities where students feel they belong. DCYF knows that the youth voice is essential to understanding impact. Each year, they survey thousands of San Francisco young people to learn how afterschool programs are meeting their needs. The results consistently show that these spaces help youth feel seen, supported, and safe — outcomes that matter just as much as academic achievement.
Here are some key afterschool program findings:
- 9 in 10 youth (91%) said “Program staff are available if I need help or support.”
- Nearly 9 in 10 (89%) agreed “Program staff listen to me when I have something to say.”
- About 9 in 10 (88%) said “I feel safe being myself at this program.”
- Over 85% of youth said “I feel like my ideas matter here,” reflecting strong youth engagement and belonging.
- 9 in 10 youth (90%) said “I believe that I can do most things if I try,” suggesting programs are helping youth build confidence and perseverance.
We’re grateful to be part of a citywide network of organizations committed to this work, and we’re proud to stand alongside our fellow DCYF grantees in celebrating what afterschool programs make possible. You can learn more about the celebration and other grantee partners here.
