Celebrating Lights On After School with Greater Gallatin United Way 
 

"In a world that never stops moving, we often forget how essential those afterschool hours are for our children," said Kim Hall, Greater Gallatin United Way CEO. "These hours are not just about childcare; they're about nurturing talents, fostering friendships, and inspiring dreams.”

 

Greater Gallatin United Way (GGUW) knows all too well the challenges working families in the area face. In this beautiful corner of Montana, where nature's splendor knows no bounds, families are drawn to a way of life that cherishes open spaces and community bonds. However, beneath this idyllic exterior, there exists a pressing challenge – the need for accessible, affordable, and high-quality afterschool programs. 
  
Statistically, nearly 47% of Montana's children are left without access to afterschool programs, creating a daily struggle to balance work and family life. A recent survey revealed that 60% of working parents in Gallatin County face difficulties in securing afterschool care for their children, an issue compounded by skyrocketing costs of living.  
  
The afterschool predicament extends to neighboring counties like Park, Meagher, and Madison, where limited resources and remote locations pose even more significant challenges for working parents. The absence of afterschool support can often lead to children being unsupervised, which, in turn, has resulted in lower academic achievement, increased behavioral problems, and decreased overall well-being. 
  
Amidst these challenges, Greater Gallatin United Way’s kidsLINK out-of-school initiatives and have provided a lifeline for working parents and an opportunity for children to thrive. Nearly 40% of kidsLINK families receive tuition assistance, making it affordable. While GGUW’s partnerships with local youth programs, nonprofits, and area schools make afterschool programs accessible. 
 

Academic Excellence:

GGUW’s kidsLINK students receive invaluable help with homework, access to educational resources, and assistance in reinforcing their learning. 

Through Holistic Development:

Beyond academics, children engage in enriching activities encompassing the arts, mental well-being, science, sports, and music, encouraging well-rounded growth. 

Safe Havens:

Importantly, these programs provide a safe haven for children to learn, play, and grow, reducing the risks associated with unsupervised afterschool hours.  

Community Connection:

GGUW’s initiatives create a sense of community, connecting children with positive role models and peers, thus fostering essential social skills and building a strong support network. 

  
On October 26, 2023, we will celebrate "Lights On Afterschool," a nationwide initiative that shines a light on the invaluable role of afterschool programs in nurturing our youth and allowing families to remain in the workforce. 
  
Families like Sarah, a single mother who works long hours as a nurse to provide for her two children. “Not only has kidsLINK been a safe haven for my kids but it has also given me the peace of mind to focus on my job,” said Sarah. “When I received notice that my kids were receiving a scholarship, I was in tears. I had no idea how I would afford care for my children.” 
  
Other families have shared their newfound opportunities for career advancement, how their child’s behavioral problems have improved, and how their child discovered their passion for music through the kidsLINK summer camp program. 
  
Lights On Afterschool serves as a reminder that the need for accessible, high-quality afterschool programs in Greater Gallatin is real and pressing. The programs offered by Greater Gallatin United Way not only address this need but also empower families to thrive in this beautiful part of Montana.  
  
On October 26th, we invite our community to champion the cause of afterschool programs and ensure that every child's dream in Greater Gallatin has a chance to shine. By supporting GGUW's afterschool initiatives, we are investing in the future of our children, and our community. Together, we can ensure that the lights stay on after school, illuminating the path toward success for all young minds and families.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED