Accomplishments:
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Illinois’ ACT Now fought back against proposed funding cuts to the state’s Teen REACH afterschool program.
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Illinois’ ACT Now supported statewide launch of Illinois’ School Age & Youth Development Credential to enhance professional development.
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Illinois’ ACT Now armed providers and stakeholders with advocacy materials for Lights On and new-legislator events.
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Illinois’ ACT Now has a mailing list of 1,974 email addresses
Current Projects and Initiatives:
- ACT Now looks forward to collaborating on continued efforts around credentialing for Illinois afterschool workers. An initial pilot phase of the credential has been completed and will now be available statewide, while other components are still in development.
- ACT Now is working to ensure the Governor’s office establishes the Youth Development Council, as required by law. The council is charged with making public recommendations to the General Assembly and the Governor concerning system-wide goals around youth development.
- ACT Now collaborates with several organizations to promote a coordinated messaging campaign for afterschool and expanded learning, including efforts surrounding funding and reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act as it impacts 21st Century Community Learning Center programs.