St. Louis for Kids has launched a new advocacy campaign called “Afterschool Works!” The purpose is to expand afterschool options for families by: generating greater community awareness about the value of afterschool programs; making afterschool accessibility a top policy priority; and increasing public funding for youth program providers. Thanks to Wal-Mart Stores Inc. for funding the campaign. Become part of “Afterschool Works!” To learn more, click here.

Campaign Video, click here to watch

Lighting the Way Celebration Launches "Afterschool Works"

More then 200 people attended the 3rd Annual St. Louis for Kids Lighting the Way Awards Dinner on May 21st at the Lumen Event Venue. The gala, co-chaired by Sandra Moore of Urban Strategies and Richard Baron of McCormack, Baron Salazar, honored Deborah Patterson, President of the Monsanto Fund for her many contributons to children and youth in our community. To view event pictures click here.

Happenings 4 Youth

Happenings 4 Youth is an initiative led by a coalition of concerned stakeholders, sponsored by St. Louis for Kids with the goal to reduce substance abuse among youth by increasing access to positive drug-free activities during non-school hours. Click here for additional information on the Happenings 4 Youth Coalition.

H4Y On-line ResourceDirectory

Happenings 4 Youth is a free print directory of non-school hour activities and programs as well as a thoroughly searchable, user-friendly website that promotes youth organizations and activities throughout the Metropolitan St. Louis area. Click here for the online directory.

If you would like further information please contact Dennis Trask, Project Coordinator Happenings For Youth at 314-241-0011.

Membership in the Reaching Our Youth Institute (ROYI) has its benefits!

Are you currently a member of ROYI? To become a member is easy to do; simply complete a 2009 Membership Questionnaire (link available below), check the box on the last page, and submit your information via mail (1415 Olive Street, Suite 150, St. Louis, MO 63103), fax (314) 241-0044, or click here to email. It's that simple! As a member organization of ROYI you have access to the FREE training workshops aimed at helping your organization develop and become more sustainable in this tough economy. Does your organization need help better marketing you're services to your community, or need a Succession Plan in place just in case key staff leaves your organization? Have you always wondered how to increase the effectiveness of your Volunteer Program? In this tough economy do you have a current strategic plan...any idea how to get started or need to diversify your revenue sources? Need an effective evaluation method? Then sign up and take advantage of trainings on these topics and much more!

For additional benefits information click here.

Click here for 2009 Membership Questionnaire

Capacity Building refers to a set of activities and decisions that strengthens an organization and enables it to better achieve its mission. (The Deaconness Foundation Impact Partnership)