Share this post
Celebrating Champions of Afterschool at ACT Now’s Lights On Event
On October 23, 2025, the ACT Now Coalition’s Lights On Afterschool Celebration brought together youth organizations, educators, and advocates from across Illinois to highlight the vital role afterschool programs play in student success and community well-being.
Civic Engagement & Advocacy
Educational
CASL was proud to be represented at the event by its Director of Children & Youth Services, Cindy La and Youth Program Manager, Zeqi Guo.
CASL extends sincere appreciation to Representative Aaron Ortiz and Representative Theresa Mah for their strong support of afterschool programs. Both legislators have recognized how afterschool programming strengthens families, supports working parents, and expands opportunities for young people across Chicago and the state.
CASL’s Commitment to Youth
CASL’s afterschool program serves elementary, middle school, and high school students, offering an environment where youth can learn, grow, and feel supported beyond the school day. The program includes:
- Homework assistance and academic support to reinforce school-day learning
- Enrichment activities that build creativity, curiosity, leadership, and confidence
- Social-emotional and life skills development, helping youth navigate challenges and build healthy relationships
- College and career readiness programming for teens, including mentoring and guidance for their next steps
CASL’s approach centers relationship-building, cultural responsiveness, and partnership with families, helping youth feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Afterschool Programs Make a Measurable Difference
Research consistently show that high-quality afterschool programs have powerful positive impacts:
- Students in afterschool programs demonstrate improved school attendance, higher academic performance, and better work habits.
- Participation in afterschool programs is linked to stronger social-emotional skills, higher confidence, and improved behavior.
- Families report that afterschool programs reduce stress, increase safety, and support their ability to work knowing their children are engaged in positive activities.
- In Illinois specifically, afterschool programs help youth build leadership, explore STEM, stay engaged in school, and stay safe during peak hours for youth crime and victimization.
These benefits highlight the importance of continued support in funding for afterschool programs.
Honoring Leadership and Advocacy
CASL is grateful for the continued leadership of Representative Ortiz and Representative Mah. Their advocacy helps ensure that organizations like CASL can continue offering transformative opportunities for young people across Chicago.
CASL remains committed to expanding afterschool access and partnering with families, schools, and community leaders so every young person can learn, grow, and thrive — both in and beyond the classroom.
