ACT Now

We are so grateful for the continued support from Senator Guzman for afterschool programs and community schools throughout Illinois. These investments help students stay engaged, families stay connected, and communities stay strong. Thank you for being a champion for kids and families!

Thank you to Leader Gabel for prioritizing Illinois students and your continued support of afterschool and out-of-school time programs in Illinois. Your support is helping young people succeed in the classroom and beyond while strengthening communities across our state!

We truly appreciate Leader Mah for recognizing the impact of afterschool programs and community schools on student success in Illinois. Thank you for helping ensure young people have access to safe spaces, caring adults, and enriching opportunities every day!

Thank you, Representative Hirschauer, for your support of community schools across Illinois. Strong schools and strong communities go hand in hand, and your leadership helps make both possible!

A huge thank you to Representative Ortiz for supporting afterschool and community school initiatives across Illinois. Your commitment helps create opportunities for students to learn, grow, and thrive while giving families the support they need. We are so grateful for your continued leadership!

Today, we’re pausing our usual Newsletter Tuesday for something even more important: Action!

This is the final week of the spring legislative session, and lawmakers are making critical decisions about the state budget right now. Afterschool and community school programs are on the line and your voice can make a difference.

We’re urging every program, partner, advocate, and supporter across the state to contact your legislators this week and demand strong funding for afterschool and community schools. These programs provide safe spaces, opportunities, support, and hope for young people and families in every community.

Don’t wait. Speak up now and remind legislators that our youth deserve investment, opportunity, and a brighter future.

Take Action: https://igniteadvocacy.com/go/2026-ost-for-all-email-your-legislators/1039

We’re so grateful to Senator Villanueva for championing OST funding in Illinois. Access to safe, supportive learning environments before and after the school day makes a lasting difference for students, families, and neighborhoods. Thank you for your leadership!

When thinking about quality, the details matter! Be sure to stay tuned for a special announcement from ACT Now's Quality Team next month!

In the final week of the spring legislative session, we wanted to thank a few of the legislators who have been champions and strong supporters of OST this spring!

Thank you to Senator Villivalam for standing up for Illinois students and families by supporting funding for afterschool programs. These investments help young people succeed in the classroom and beyond while strengthening communities across our state.

Time is running out! ⏰ There’s just over one week left in the spring legislative session, and lawmakers are making final FY27 budget decisions now.

Tell your legislators that afterschool and community school programs are critical for youth, families, and communities across Illinois. Contact your legislators today and support OST for All!

Take Action: https://igniteadvocacy.com/go/ost-for-all-call-your-legislators/1038