We work to advocate for out-of-school time programs by demonstrating their positive impact across our state.
One critical aspect of our work is to intentionally advocate on behalf of out-of-school time programs across Indiana. To advance these advocacy efforts, we gather relevant data that articulates the values and positive impact of out-of-school time programs, we provide program staff with best practices and innovative approaches that help strengthen their work, and we identify structured ways to pursue support and understanding of the critical services that these programs provide.
Through listening to the needs of the OST stakeholders, IAN can address critical concerns. Through educating stakeholders, can IAN strengthen the field and develop a citizenry that is informed and understands the impact of OST. Stronger, more informed stakeholders provide the OST field a cadre of grassroots advocates that can be mobilized to effect change. IAN convenes these advocates to advance the field towards quality, sustainability, and professionalism and to promote public policies that strengthen the work of the field.
We organize advocacy and outreach efforts into geographic regions. Not only do the regions facilitate a sustainable foundation of neighborhood among OST providers, but they promote regional cooperation and efficient implementation of advocacy efforts. Click below to learn which region you’re in and reach out to IAN to learn how you can get connected.
There are several ways to get directly involved with our advocacy for Indiana OST programs and professionals.
IAN Provider Council
The Provider Council is made up of a select group of Indiana out-of-school time providers who commit to ensuring the success of IAN’s statewide initiatives and support effective programs. Council members are responsible for strategically advising and collaborating with our staff to support our mission of advancing opportunities for learning beyond the school day.
IAN Public Policy Committee
The Public Policy Committee (PPC) is comprised civic-minded OST leaders who are committed to ensuring the success of the field by influencing public policies. The PPC works with our board of directors to provide a clear strategy for public policy, advocacy, and organizing advocacy efforts to support the OST field across the State.
National Afterschool Association
NAA is the membership association for professionals who work with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours. The Indiana Afterschool Network is the Indiana state affiliate of NAA.
Browse our library of afterschool-related events from all across the state to view any scheduled advocacy opportunities nearest your community.
Elected officials want to know what is happening with kids in their communities – your voice matters too. Together, we can rally support for afterschool programs around the state.
America After 3PM
Compiled by the Afterschool Alliance, America After 3PM is the nation’s largest household survey of how kids spend the afterschool hours.
Campaign for Afterschool Toolkit
Collection of resources to help you spark conversations about afterschool with candidates for office in your local community or state.
Federal Afterschool Policy Updates
From funding streams to nutritious meals in programs, federal policy plays a big role in the afterschool landscape. Learn more about the latest federal policy developments from the Afterschool Alliance Policy newsletter.
Find Your Indiana Legislators
This tool provided by the Indiana General Assembly will help you locate your elected legislators – including your State Senators, State Representatives, and Congressional Legislators – so that you can stay more informed of their platforms and policies.
We’ll help you maintain the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to deliver high-quality programs to Indiana’s youth.
Help shape a brighter future for kids in Indiana.
