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November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Native peoples across the United States. The celebration traces its roots to the early 20th century, when Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca historian, advocated for national recognition. In 1990, it was officially designated, establishing an annual opportunity to honor the resilience and enduring presence of Indigenous communities. This month reminds us of the importance of preserving and honoring culture through Ethical Storytelling, dialogue, and community connection. Culture comes alive through story, tradition, and relationships, reflecting the same values that guide our work in Expanded Learning.

Through the Ecosystem Plan’s strategic design process, CAN is working alongside leaders and trusted messengers from across California who bring diverse perspectives, program models, and lived experiences from the youth-serving ecosystem. Together, we are shaping a plan rooted in community, healing, and opportunity, reflecting the principles of reciprocity and collective care that have long been central to Indigenous traditions. With the Ecosystem Advisory Team now mobilized following our October 16th convening, we look forward to building a plan that envisions an Expanded Learning ecosystem where every voice contributes to collective growth.

 #LightsOnAfterschool is almost here!

Join the nation’s largest celebration of afterschool and summer learning programs on October 23, 2025. Lights On Afterschool is a time for programs across the country to shine a light on their impact: amplifying their voices online, connecting with new audiences, and celebrating the power of afterschool. We’re proud to join communities nationwide in this celebration!

“When we gather across communities, we create new possibilities for children and families.” 

The Ecosystem Plan Design Team has been hard at work planning the next steps of developing the Ecosystem Plan. Collective imagination gives us the power to envision more than isolated programs; it allows us to design systems that connect schools, afterschool, housing, health, and nutrition.

As we begin a new fiscal year, we continue to navigate uncertain challenges. As you likely know, the Trump Administration has announced that 21st CCLC funding for summer and afterschool programs is being illegally withheld. 

Hello, and welcome!

Let’s be real—things are rough, heavy, heartbreaking, overwhelming, and scary in many of our communities right now. Though we celebrate Pride Month and Juneteenth, we would be remiss not to acknowledge the immigration raids and inhumane acts of violence, especially in our brown and marginalized communities. We recently shared a message with our Partners, which you can access here.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the theme for 2025, as established by Mental Health America, is “Turn Awareness into Action.”

Afterschool professionals do more than supervise — they inspire, empower, and change lives. Every young person deserves access to high-quality afterschool experiences that nurture their growth, ignite their curiosity, and help them thrive. Behind every impactful program is a dedicated Afterschool Professional — a mentor, educator, and advocate committed to supporting youth beyond the school day.

We Brought the Energy: 2025 Site Coordinator Symposium Recap!

A few weeks ago, we convened over 700 passionate Expanded Learning and Out of School Time professionals at the 8th annual Site Coordinator Symposium—a dynamic gathering dedicated to building community, igniting passion, and transforming futures!