Every weekday afternoon, millions of children in America enter the riskiest time of their day – the hours between 2 and 6 p.m. when juvenile crime peaks. Law enforcement leaders have long recognized this window as a danger zone, especially when children are unsupervised. But what’s equally clear is the potential for these hours to be transformed into a time of opportunity, where children are safe, supported and inspired to succeed.1
Today, over 10 million children benefit from programs offering structured, enriching activities that improve academic performance, foster social-emotional growth and provide consistent mentorship. Programs using the SAFE model: Sequenced, Active, Focused and Explicit have shown particularly strong outcomes in behavior, school attendance and graduation rates. Yet, despite these efforts, 19 million children (many from low-income families) still lack access to afterschool care. That’s two children waiting for every one currently enrolled.1
With 60% of incarcerated individuals lacking a high school diploma, law enforcement leaders understand that helping children stay engaged in school and out of trouble is both a safety measure and a long-term investment in public well-being. Afterschool programs save at least $3 for every $1 invested, thanks to improved educational outcomes and reduced crime and welfare costs.1
My CHI. My Future. is providing Chicago’s youth a variety of rich, engaging, safe and youth centered out-of-school experiences that empower them to discover and cultivate their talents, passions, skills and identities; develop as physically, mentally and emotionally healthy members of society; build relationships and networks with peers and mentors; and explore multiple pathways to college, careers, trades, entrepreneurship and life-long learning. Some opportunities include:2
- Chicago Park District offers 4 positions (ages 16+): Lifeguard, Recreation Leader, Special Recreation Leader and Junior Laborer (hourly pay ranges from $17.02-$19.75)
- One Summer Chicago offers employment / internship opportunities (ages 14 to 24)
- Mayor’s Youth Commission, a group of up to 40 Chicagoans who live within the boundaries of the City of Chicago (ages 14-19), can serve as a liaison between the Mayor’s Office and Chicago’s youth
The evidence is clear: afterschool programs reduce crime, boost academic performance and help children thrive. By expanding access to these proven programs, especially in high-need communities, we can turn the most dangerous hours of the day into the most promising – and protect our future, one child at a time.1 If you are interested in becoming an Advocate for the Innocent member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.
1 – https://www.strongnation.org/articles/930-from-risk-to-opportunity-afterschool-programs-keep-kids-safe
2 – https://explore.mychimyfuture.org/
3 – Image by Freepik