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Extracurricular Programs are a Core Component of Youth Development
While school-based learning is an essential part of children’s development, out-of-school-time is equally important for kids’ growth. Out-of-school-time includes everything from summer camps to after school activities to weekend academic enrichment programs. Extracurricular programming provides childcare for busy caregivers and also helps young people develop a sense of community, learn leadership skills, be creative, explore new interests, and understand the importance of teamwork. A 2025 report from the Wallace Foundation and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine outlines the value of out-of-school-time and digs into some of the core issues affecting the health of the informal learning sector in the U.S.
For some families, enriching out-of-school programming feels like a natural part of the landscape of raising children. Kids play sports, attend art or music lessons, and get tutoring if they need it. For many other families, however, access to thoughtful out-of-school programming is a real issue. Public schools often offer sports and clubs at no cost to students, but they may be unavailable during school breaks and many other forms of extracurricular programming have fees for participation. Unfortunately, fees are only the first barrier for many low-income families. Transportation to and from program sites and the cost of obtaining required gear or supplies are also formidable obstacles that prevent access to out-of-school programs.
The issue of cost is complex. Youth-focused nonprofits, especially those dedicated to increasing access to programming, are facing an increasingly hostile funding environment. Lack of certainty in funding makes it difficult for organizations to promise scholarships, income adjusted fees, or other forms of support to the families they serve. Moreover, staff time and energy that could be dedicated to mentorship, program design, or other mission-related work, often gets redirected towards grant writing and developing creative solutions to fill funding gaps.
Another issue facing the informal learning sector is an inconsistent workforce. Many jobs related to youth programming such as coaches, camp counselors, outdoor educators, and after school coordinators, are low paying and inconsistent due to seasonal demand. Additionally, they often lack opportunities for career advancement and long-term stability. This means that retention rates are low in many programs and workers often cycle in and out of the sector. Even workers highly dedicated to the mission of youth-focused organizations may need to take time away to make ends meet or fill gaps in employment.
Despite these challenges, extracurricular programs continue to offer a critical service in their communities. NRF grantees and the countless other youth-focused organizations across the U.S. are playing an important role in shaping future generations of compassionate, engaged, and thoughtful community members. Their work perfectly complements the role of formal educational institutions – both are essential ingredients in healthy youth development.