The City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities is participating in the 26th annual Lights On Afterschool celebration tonight, Thursday, Oct. 23, joining communities nationwide in showcasing the role afterschool programs play in children’s lives.
The national event, organized by the Afterschool Alliance and first launched in October 2000, highlights how afterschool programs help students explore interests in areas ranging from science and robotics to poetry and community service. The celebration also draws attention to children who need access to after-school care.
In Alexandria, the city’s Recreation Services Division operates Power-On Out-of-School Time Programs at 11 locations, serving youth ages 5-12 in grades K-6. The programs provide recreation-based leisure and enrichment activities, including creative and performing arts, music and movement, sports and fitness, health and wellness, STEM activities, and special events.
To mark tonight’s celebration, program locations throughout Alexandria are hosting activities including glow dance parties, guest speakers, STEAM activities, crafts, performing arts, face painting, creative writing, cooperative games, and enrichment clubs.
The city said the Power-On programs align with the Lights On Afterschool mission by offering structured afterschool enrichment opportunities.
For more information about Alexandria’s Out-of-School Time Programs, visit alexandriava.gov/rpca/ostp. To learn more about the national afterschool movement, visit afterschoolalliance.org.
For disability accommodation, contact [email protected] or call 703-746-5423, Virginia Relay 711.
