ACT Now, YMCA Call for Statewide Commitment to Out-of-School Time Access by 2035
CHICAGO, IL (October 23, 2025) — The ACT Now Coalition, Illinois’ leading voice for Out-of-School Time (OST) programs, joined the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago today to call for a statewide commitment to ensure that by 2035, every child and family in Illinois has access to high-quality, affordable OST programs.
OST refers to the hours when young people are outside of school — after school, weekends, and breaks — and includes tutoring, arts, sports, STEM, and enrichment programs. These programs play a vital role in academic achievement, emotional well-being, and workforce readiness.
“By 2035, Illinois has the opportunity to lead the nation by guaranteeing every child and family access to quality Out-of-School Time programs,” said Susan Stanton, Executive Director of the ACT Now Coalition. “These programs are not just a nice-to-have, they’re essential to youth success, family stability, and community safety.”
According to the After School Alliance’s “America After 3PM” report, for every child enrolled in an afterschool program in Illinois, three more are waiting for a spot. That means more than 1.1 million children would participate if given the chance, while nearly 300,000 children are left unsupervised after school.
Illinois has made significant progress since 2020, leveraging state and federal funds to expand access, moving from one in four children served to one in three. Still, ACT Now emphasized that meeting the full need requires a sustained funding increase of $7.5 million annually, growing total OST investment to $450 million in Illinois by 2035.
“This is not just a financial investment, it’s a moral one,” Stanton added. “Every dollar we spend on Out-of-School Time pays dividends in safety, learning, and opportunity. Illinois already has a strong foundation; now we need to build the structure that ensures every young person can benefit.”
The coalition also urged lawmakers to establish a statewide OST Council to coordinate funding, share best practices, and uphold accountability for equitable access. The proposed council would bring together educators, community leaders, families, and policymakers to ensure that public investments reach proven, high-impact programs.
Organizations like the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago already demonstrate what’s possible. As one of the region’s largest OST providers, the YMCA serves thousands of youth daily with safe, enriching programs rooted in community needs.
“High-quality Out-of-School Time programs keep kids safe, help parents work, and strengthen entire communities,” said Adam Alonso, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. “Illinois has the partnerships and the passion to lead the nation — and now, with ACT Now’s leadership, we have the plan.”
About ACT Now
The ACT Now Coalition is a statewide network of organizations and individuals dedicated to ensuring that all Illinois youth have access to quality, affordable Out-of-School Time programs. The coalition advocates for equitable funding, professional development, and policies that help youth thrive from early childhood through young adulthood. For more information, visit ACT Now IL.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is a regional leader in accessible, inclusive programming for more than 300,000 individuals each year, strengthening community by connecting all people to their purpose, potential, and each other. With multiple locations and community programs across the Chicago metropolitan area, the YMCA of Metro Chicago provides inclusive spaces and services that help individuals and families thrive — from child care and afterschool programs to fitness, wellness, and community outreach.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Emma Giamberdino
Deputy Director of Policy, Communications, and External Affairs
ACT Now
312-877-0726
[email protected]
Jack Segal
Director of Marketing Communications
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
312-805-8838
[email protected]