How do afterschool programs affect our community in general?

When you calculate all of the cost savings associated with the benefits of afterschool programs, the net effect is that every $1 invested in afterschool saves taxpayers $8-12 in total savings. Here's why.

Afterschool programs are a powerful antidote to youth crime:

• They provide a safe haven that keeps kids away from violence.
• They provide an alternative to gangs and street life, allowing kids to develop new skills and interact positively with peers.
• They offer youth hope and opportunities, offsetting the sense of nihilism can cause youth to turn to crime.
• They contribute to economic opportunity by providing academic support and job skills
• Nine out of ten police chiefs agreed with the statement: "If America does not make greater investments in after-school and educational child care programs to help children and youth now, we will pay far more later in crime, welfare and other costs."