Accomplishments:
- To improve quality through research, in 2011 PSAYDN and Penn State University released the publication Engaging Youth in Career Programming During Out-of-School Time: Lessons for Program Design from a Study of Experienced Out-of-School Time Programs.
- To advance policy advocacy, Afterschool Advocacy Day attracted 80 statewide OST advocates to participate in training, legislative visits and a rally at the state capitol.
- To promote awareness and engagement, PSAYDN supported 276 Lights On Afterschool events among OST stakeholders in Pennsylvania, including three National Light Up a Landmark winners.
Current Projects and Initiatives:
- PSAYDN is developing a strategic financing/sustainability plan to meet the needs of the network.
- PSAYDN membership continues to increase from 65 in 2004 to over 1,400 members in 2012. PSAYDN’s partners range from 21st Century Community Learning Centers to Workforce Development Board Youth Councils and school-age childcare technical assistance organizations.
- PSAYDN has conducted an online Child and Youth Worker Survey designed to create a snapshot of child/youth workers in Pennsylvania. Information collected includes the nature of their current work, how they are compensated, how/if they are supported in the workplace, their level of job satisfaction and their professional needs. The survey also captured data on what it will take to attract, develop and sustain youth workers.