AfterZone Model
The research and discussions preceding PASA’s creation revealed that Providence’s middle school youth lacked sufficient opportunities for high-quality learning experiences after school. As a result, PASA and its partners focused initial efforts on building a network of after-school zones – or AfterZones – that serve as “neighborhood campuses”. AfterZones are centered around communities where youth live and go to school, and where services are most concentrated.
Unlike traditional after-school programs, AfterZones are more than single programs housed in one building. Rather, the “campus” is anchored by one or more schools, and includes programming at recreation centers, libraries, museums, arts organizations and youth centers. Programs in arts, sports and skills-building are led by program providers and some middle school teachers, supported by AfterZone staff members, AmeriCorps members and college volunteers.
A coordinating council of community representatives leads each AfterZone and makes decisions about staffing, budgets and grant funding for program providers. The result is an accessible, coordinated schedule of programming year-round, allowing youth to get outside school and explore beyond the familiar, while also developing deeper relationships within their schools.
Key Statistics
- Over 4,000 middle school youth have participated in AfterZones since January 2006
- Each year approximately 1,800 youth participate in AfterZone programs (about 1,000 in any session)
- This is over one-third of the students in grades 6-8 in Providence public schools and about 40% of students in partner middle schools
AfterZone Brochure
