It's Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week: Ways to Show You Care

Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week 2024 is April 22-26 and it’s the perfect time to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. The week is marked by celebrations and public relations efforts encouraging appreciation and support for all the afterschool professionals who make a profound difference in the lives of young people.

  • How can YOU show you care about OST workers? We’re glad you asked!

FOR FAMILIES

Everyone appreciates being recognized for their efforts and a simple “thank you!” goes a long way! Some ideas include:

  • Hand-written cards from you and/or your child
  • An email to the staff member’s manager or administrator
  • Fun handmade signs put up at the location of your program
  • Healthy or non-food treats for the afterschool program staff
  • Gift cards for a specialty coffee, teacher supply store or bookstore

FOR LEADERS

Thanking your staff shows them you appreciate what they do! Some ideas to show your appreciation:

  • Sharing with parents and kids about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week via email or social media
  • Providing healthy treats or lunch for staff
  • Creating awards for specific strengths of staff members (Best Family Communicator, STEM Star, Most Positive, etc.)
  • Sending a Press Release to your local media

FOR ORGANIZATIONS

Organizations can recognize, appreciate, and advocate for the afterschool professionals making a difference in their community; it shines the light on their efforts and accomplishments! Some ideas include:

  • Sharing about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week in your communications (web site, eNewsletters, social media)
  • Hosting events honoring the success of your local afterschool programs
  • Sending a Press Release to your local media
  • Asking local officials to proclaim the event

Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is all about finding meaningful ways to thank out-of-school time professionals for all that they do to enhance education, promote physical and emotional health, provide a safe environment and expose youth to new experiences.

NJSACC will be highlighting each of its own fantastic afterschool professionals all week along. Stay tuned!

  • How will you celebrate?