14 Oct 2024

Last-minute ideas for Lights On Afterschool!

The 2024 celebration of Lights On Afterschool is in just one week! Even if you aren’t hosting your event this year, there are still plenty of fun and easy ways to get involved in Lights On, like participating in the Lightbulb Challenge!

The Lights On Afterschool Lightbulb Challenge involves little effort and has a big impact. Here’s how you can participate:

  • Strike a pose: Take a photo of yourself, students in the program, or teachers and parents posing in the shape of our Lights On Afterschool logo.
  • Share on Social Media: Post your photos to your favorite social media platform before 11:59 PST on October 24 for the chance to win a Mizzen swag pack for your program! Don’t forget to use the hashtag #LightbulbChallenge in your post.
  • Inspire Others: In your social media captions, encourage others to follow in your footsteps! Tag afterschool programs, educators, and people you’d like to see participating and challenge them to post their own photos.

For a fun twist on the classic #LightbulbChallenge, involve your students in the creative process! Ask young artists in your program to craft their own lightbulbs by drawing, painting, or decorating printouts of the Lights On lightbulb. Then, snap a photo of them with their artwork held above their heads.

We’re in the home stretch—can you join us for Lights On Afterschool 2024? If you’re celebrating this year, register your event to let us know, and we’ll count you in!

Gov. Murphy Proclaims the date Lights On afterschool 2024

Instructions for Anyone Requesting a Proclamation for Lights On Afterschool:

Step 1: Tailor the Proclamation Text

  • Prepare a draft proclamation to simplify the process for your Mayor’s office.
  • Keep the message concise and impactful, and include key information such as:
    • The purpose of Lights On Afterschool—raising awareness for the importance of afterschool programs.
    • The significance of afterschool programs in your local community.
    • A request for city support in officially recognizing this important day.
Sample Email Template:

Dear Mayor [Name],

On October 24, 2024, NJSACC: The Statewide Network for NJ’s Afterschool Communities (NJSACC) and [INSERT NAME OF LOCAL AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM] will join more than 8,000 organizations nationwide to celebrate Lights On Afterschool, an event that shines a spotlight on the critical role afterschool programs play in children’s success. Our goal is to ensure that these essential programs continue to thrive in our community.

We respectfully request your support in issuing a proclamation to officially recognize Lights On Afterschool in [City/Town]. Please find the attached proclamation draft for your convenience.

Thank you for your consideration and continued support of afterschool programs.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Organization]
[Contact Information]

Step 2: Tailor the Proclamation for Your Community

  • Personalize the draft proclamation to reflect your community’s unique afterschool programs.
    • Highlight the program’s impact, using local statistics or success stories if possible.
    • Showcase how afterschool programs support students, families, and the broader community.

Step 3: Find the Proclamation Request Page for Your Municipality

  • Most cities and towns have specific procedures for submitting proclamation requests. To find the correct website or form, search using phrases like:
    • “[City/Town Name] Mayor’s Proclamation Request”
    • “[City/Town Name] Proclamation Submission Guidelines”
    • “[City/Town Name] Mayor’s Office Proclamation Request Form”
  • You can often find the form or contact information on the official website of your municipality under the Mayor’s or Public Affairs section. If unsure, call your town hall or check with the city clerk’s office for guidance.

Step 4: Submit the Proclamation Request

  • Attach your draft proclamation to the request.
  • Be formal, polite, and brief in your submission.
    • Submit your request via the Mayor’s website, email, or in person based on the guidelines found on your municipality’s official page.
    • Include the formal letter, draft proclamation, and any relevant supporting materials (e.g., event flyers, program brochures).

Step 5: Follow Up Politely

  • If you do not receive a response within two weeks, follow up with a polite email or phone call.
  • Offer additional information or assistance, if needed.

Step 6: Plan a Presentation Ceremony

  • If the proclamation is granted, coordinate with the Mayor’s office to arrange a presentation.
  • If possible, invite the Mayor to present the proclamation during your Lights On Afterschool event.

Step 7: Publicize the Proclamation

  • Once the proclamation is issued, share the news via social media, newsletters, and local media.
  • Emphasize the Mayor’s support for afterschool programs and the positive impact on your community.

Step 8: Send a Thank-You Note

  • After the event, send a thank-you letter or email to the Mayor and their staff to express your gratitude for their support.

By following these steps, you can successfully request a proclamation and raise visibility for Lights On Afterschool, highlighting the vital role that afterschool programs play in your community.

Register here
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