DANVILLE — Keeping afterschool programs is essential for communities.
Project Success of Vermilion County is going to highlight afterschool programs this month with events at the Laura Lee Fellowship House, Oakwood City Park, Illini Skateland and Hoopeston Civic Center.
“Lights On Afterschool is a national celebration that Project Success is proud to participate in each year,” said Kimberly David, CEO of Project Success of Vermilion County. “It provides an important opportunity to shine a spotlight on the vital role afterschool programs play in the lives of children, families and communities.
“Continued funding for afterschool programs is critical, both nationwide and right here in Vermilion County.”
David said these events help to ‘keep the lights on’ in afterschool programs.
“Keeping the lights on in our programs means providing students with safe, supportive environments where they can learn, grow, build relationships, and discover new opportunities,” David said.
The first event is 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at Laura Lee Fellowship House, 212 E. Williams Street in Danville. There will be games, crafts, dinner, a contest, dancing, student speeches, and table trunk-or-treat.
A circus-themed outdoor event will take play 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29 at Oakwood Park for those in the Oakwood School District. There will be crafts, dinner, an escape room, face painting, and family basket drawings.
Students in the Georgetown-Ridge Farm, Salt Fork and Westville districts will have an event from 4:30-7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29 at Illini Skateland, 8 Brewer Road in Danville. There will be a dinner, skating, a costume contest, dancing, and the announcement of the Lights On Afterschool Art contest winners.
Finally, the students from Hoopeston Area schools will have an event from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30 at the Hoopeston Civic Center, 1 McFerren Park Way. There will be a student art competition, a costume contest, as well as food, music, games, and a return of the ‘Scare Room.’
“Last year alone, Project Success served 1,428 students through our afterschool programs, making a meaningful difference in the lives of local youth,” David said. “This celebration is also an opportunity to recognize and thank our school districts, community partners, and supporters who help make these programs possible.”
David added, “We are investing in the success of our students and the future of our community.”
For more information, contact Project Success at 217-446-3200 or go to their website at www.vcprojectsuccess.org