October 23, 2025: Lights on Afterschool Day

WHEREAS, the people of the state of Michigan are committed to quality afterschool programs and opportunities; and,

WHEREAS, afterschool programs provide safe, challenging, and engaging learning experiences that help children develop social, emotional, physical, and academic skills; and,

WHEREAS, after the regular school day ends, working families use afterschool programs to ensure their children are safe and productive; and,

WHEREAS, these programs build stronger communities by involving students, parents, business leaders, and adult volunteers in the lives of young people, thereby promoting positive relationships among youth, families, and adults; and,

WHEREAS, when families, schools, and community partners promote and encourage afterschool programs, they are supporting new experiences and opportunities that help young people learn, grow, and realize their full potential and,

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan has provided significant leadership in the area of community involvement in the education and well-being of our youth, grounded in the principle that quality afterschool programs are key to helping our children become successful adults; and,

WHEREAS, Lights On Afterschool, the national celebration of afterschool programs, held this year on October 23, 2025, promotes the importance of quality afterschool programs in the lives of children, families, and communities; and,

WHEREAS, nearly 30 million families report that they would enroll their child in an afterschool program if one is available; and, 

WHEREAS, many afterschool programs across the country are facing operating challenges so severe that they are forced to consider closing their doors and turning off their lights; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan is committed to investing in the health and safety of all young people by providing expanded learning opportunities that help our children learn and grow while helping them develop the skills essential for success in life and work; and, 

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan has committed $75 million in Fiscal Year 2026 to investing in the health and safety of all young people by providing expanded learning opportunities that will help close the achievement gap and prepare young people to build bright futures;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 23, 2025, as Lights on Afterschool Day in Michigan.