MIC Food Gives Back: After School All-Stars

Did you know that more than 1.5 million school-age children (26%) are on their own after school? Among them, more than 1 million are in grades K-5. (Afterschool Alliance, 2009) An analysis of 68 afterschool studies concluded that high quality afterschool programs can lead to improved attendance, behavior and coursework. Students participating in a high-quality afterschool program went to school more, behaved better, received better grades and did better on tests compared to non-participating students. (Durlak, Weissberg & Pachan, 2010)

WE CARE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY

MIC Food® proudly supports today’s youth through ongoing partnership with South Florida Afterschool All Stars, a non-profit organization created to provide opportunities for at-risk low-income middle school children through mentorship and educational after-school programs.

WHO IS AFTER-SCHOOL ALL-STARS?

After-School All-Stars South Florida (SFASAS) is the local chapter of the leading national organization that provides year-round, school-based, comprehensive after-school programs. SFASAS was established in 1996 and currently serves more than 6,000 students per year by partnering with public school districts and community organizations. With over 90% of its funds allocated directly to programming, SFASAS continues to strive in improving the quality, sustainability and cultural relevance of its youth serving programs. Its rich history evolves from the passion of its founder and former Chairman of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

WHY AFTER-SCHOOL ALL-STARS?

After-school programs keeps kids safe, improve academic performance, promote student well-being, and help communities. Each day, After-School All-Stars South Florida provides free, high quality after-school programs for approximately 6,000 low-income students at 32 schools. We believe the After-School All-Stars program model is distinct in significant ways, making it an ideal partner for local schools and communities.

• After-School Programs Offer a Range of Benefits to Youth and their Families
• An analysis of 68 afterschool studies concluded that high quality afterschool programs can lead to improved attendance, behavior and coursework. Students participating in a high-quality afterschool program went to school more, behaved better, received better grades and did better on tests compared to non-participating students. (Durlak, Weissberg & Pachan, 2010)
• Teens who do not participate in afterschool programs are nearly three times more likely to skip classes than teens who do participate. They are also three times more likely to use marijuana or other drugs, and are more likely to drink, smoke and engage in sexual activity. (YMCA of the USA, 2001)
• Parents miss an average of five days of work per year due to a lack of afterschool care. Decreased worker productivity related to parental concerns about afterschool care costs businesses up to $300 billion per year. (Catalyst & Brandeis University, 2006)
• Afterschool programs are serving a high need population. The Afterschool Alliance’s 2009 America After 3PM study revealed that an average of 67 percent of kids participating in afterschool programs qualify for free/reduced price lunch, 14 percent are Limited English Proficient, and 11 percent have special needs/disabilities.

WHO MAKES UP THE AFTER-SCHOOL ALL-STARS COMMUNITY?

SFASAS serves over 2,000 low-income at-risk youth in 17 middle school sites providing after-school services free of charge in Miami-Dade County. SFASAS also provides fee-based after-care services in an additional 19 elementary and middle school locations.

GET INVOLVED

Every person, every act makes a difference! After-School All-Stars has opportunities for anyone interested in advancing their mission, helping their students, and supporting their efforts.

To donate or volunteer visit https://sfasas.org/get-involved/