Last year, we played a leading role in a coalition that advocated for an increase in state afterschool funding to keep up with rising costs. And I’m thrilled to report that we were successful!

As a result of our efforts, this year’s state budget includes a $50 million increase for afterschool programs. This victory was hard fought – Eric Gurna, alumni, staff and I met with nearly all the members of the state legislature from Los Angeles, hosted staff on an overnight bus ride to Sacramento to join advocates from throughout California, and organized a rally at Los Angeles City Hall with hundreds of supporters.

Although the fight continues, this funding increase is a critical step towards ensuring that LA’s BEST and afterschool programs across the state are able to help children lead lives full of choices. Together with our partners, LA’s BEST will continue to fight for increased government funding to support our program. Thank you for joining our efforts. For more information visit the Advocacy page of our website.

Laura Beebe, Director of Public Partnerships