Policy & Legislation
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Supporting the development and growth of statewide policies that impact afterschool is a central component of the Colorado Afterschool Network. To ensure high quality programs and to develop sustainable streams of local, state, and federal funding, we must inform and influence the decision-makers who can advance the policy agenda for afterschool and positive youth development.
The following resources will help you learn more about:
- How to take action
- Who are the key state and local policymakers
- National research/commentary on afterschool policy
- Legislative actions
National Legislation
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This story originally appeared in the Afterschool Advocate (Vol. 10, Issue 2).
Click here to read the rest of this issue.
Youth Promise Act Introduced
On February 13, Representatives Mike Castle (R-DE) and Robert C. Bobby Scott (D-VA) introduced the Youth Prison Reduction through Opportunity Mentoring, Intervention, Support and Education (PROMISE) Act. Afterschool is mentioned throughout the bill as a promising practice and effective intervention to prevent youth violence. The bill is designed to empower local communities to form their own councils to develop strategies to deter gang activity and other juvenile crime.
On February 13, Representatives Mike Castle (R-DE) and Robert C. Bobby Scott (D-VA) introduced the Youth Prison Reduction through Opportunity Mentoring, Intervention, Support and Education (PROMISE) Act. Afterschool is mentioned throughout the bill as a promising practice and effective intervention to prevent youth violence. The bill is designed to empower local communities to form their own councils to develop strategies to deter gang activity and other juvenile crime.
I have long believed that the best way to reduce violence in this country is through prevention, and the Youth PROMISE Act does just that," Representative Castle said. "We must engage youth in positive ways through education, afterschool programs, sports, as well as family and community support to keep kids away from the dangers of gangs and other violent activities."
Resources would go to targeted communities to form Promise Coordinating Councils, to include representatives from law enforcement, court services, schools social service organizations, health and mental health providers and community-based organizations. These councils would conduct needs assessments and then develop plans for communities to implement. Although the legislation would not directly fund afterschool programs, councils could employ them as strategies to support youth.
To view the bill, search for H.R.1064 here.
This story originally appeared in the Afterschool Advocate (Vol. 10, Issue 2).
Click here to read the rest of this issue.