
The UPDATE | December 9, 2021
Out-of-School Time Impact Report Illustrates how OST Programs Are Lifelines for Youth
DC Action’s Out-of-School Time 2021 Impact Report illustrates how important quality youth development and expanded learning programs are to children and young people in the District of Columbia. Particularly during the pandemic when young people have experienced intense pressure and isolation, out-of-school time programs are essential in providing social-emotional and academic support, opportunities for growth and development, and safe and constructive environments for youth.
Out-of-school time programs are an accessible, inclusive, and innovative solution to preventing and interrupting violence, rather than a punitive response to justice-involved youth. The District’s OST sector is an essential component of community safety and positive youth development, and vital for families who depend on these spaces for their children to learn and grow while they work to make ends meet. For decades, out-of-school time programs have provided a refuge from negative environments and opportunities for young people to express themselves and explore their worlds in positive ways.

Task Force to Hold Hearing on Equitable Compensation on December 11
Early childhood educators, parents and residents are invited to join the Early Childhood Educator Equitable Compensation virtual roundtable to share their stories, needs, and recommendations for a District-wide early educator pay scale and benefits. Email Sarah Novick at sarah@jufj.orgto register to testify. The roundtable will be Saturday, December 11 at 10am.

Urge Mayor Bowser to Prioritize School-Based Behavioral Health Services
We invite you to join us in signing on to the DC Fiscal Policy Institute’s Strengthening Families Coalition letter to the Mayor requesting additional investments in school-based behavioral health services in FY2023. Prioritizing financial sustainability and successful implementation of behavioral health services is essential to supporting the mental health of the District’s children and youth. Sign on to the letter on behalf of your organization by December 9. DCFPI will be sending the letter to Mayor Bowser on December 10.
Happy Holidays from DC Action
The DC Action office will be closed December 24-December 31 so our staff can enjoy time with their friends and families. All of us at DC Action wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season filled with peace and joy. Thank you for joining us in our work to make the District of Columbia a place where all kids grow up safe, resilient, powerful and heard.
Kimberly Perry to Moderate DC for Democracy Candidate Forum December 8
Register now for DC for Democracy’s Candidate Forum, featuring DC Council Chair candidates Phil Mendelson--current chair of the DC Council--and challenger Erin Palmer, and Mayoral candidate Robert White. All candidates who have filed to run through the Fair Elections program were invited to participate in the forum. DC Action Executive Director Kimberly Perry will be moderating the online event.
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About DC Action
DC Action is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, multi-issue advocacy organization making the District of Columbia a place where all kids grow up safe, resilient, powerful and heard. DC Action uses research, data, and a racial equity lens to break down barriers that stand in the way of all kids reaching their full potential. We are home to DC Kids Count, Under 3 DC, DC Out-of-School Time Coalition, the DC Home Visiting Council and the Youth Homelessness Advocacy Coalition. Our collaborative advocacy campaigns bring the power of young people and all residents to raise their voices to create change.
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