With increased structure in school days for youth resulting from incresed accountability and academic advancement initiatives, it is important that an after school program is a place that students want to be.  Accordingly, activities in which students can bond with friends and have fun are an important component for students.  Concurrently, programs that are not well-planned will be perceived as innefective and not worthwhile to participants.  A balance must be struck (Thirteen Ed Online).


        Communities across America offer a diverse set of resources, both  through community members and physical resources.  Some communities offer vast natural resources, while others  are full of extremely knowledgable and experienced individuals.  All resources should be brought together to enhance the experience for students.  Further, after school programs can be effective tools to address the issues  of concern in communities.  For example, after school programs can include an apprenticeship component in which students are exposed to employment fields of high-need. (Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory, 2001)

       Role-models and mentors are an extremely important part of the development of young people.  Yet, many youth today have few positive role-models.  Quality programs include positive role-models for students in order to foster positive professional and character development (Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory, 2001).