Chapter 10: Afterschool and Summer Partnerships

When the pandemic hit, many schools had to close their doors. Families had to readjust to navigating health, childcare, work, and the need for constantly updated information about learning and safety, all from their homes. It was a disorienting and tragic time, but also one that exposed deep veins of community connectedness and support.

For example, In Miami, Breakthrough Collaborative, an out-of-school time provider, reached out to families with online surveys and individual outreach to learn about their difficulties. In response, the community organization hosted a series of virtual events on navigating the school system, supporting the household's financial and basic needs (such as food and housing supports), and wellness, including ensuring a mental health counselor was available for students and families. In Charlotte, North Carolina, another community afterschool program, ourBRIDGE For KIDS, serving over 80% of English language learners from 22 different cultures, translated school materials for students and families to help them stay informed and connected (Afterschool Alliance, 2021).