Mayor Daley rolled out an interactive Web site www.afterschoolchicago.org that will help youth, ages 6 and older, and their families research and choose from thousands of different after-school programs located throughout Chicago. The After-School Chicago Web site is one of the most comprehensive of its kind in the nation and will include a diverse variety of afternoon, evening and weekend program options that span organizations including the Chicago Department of Children and Youth Services, Chicago Public Schools, After School Matters, the Chicago Park District and Chicago Public Libraries. The coordination and development of the After-School Chicago Web site was led by the Chicago Department of Children and Youth Services and funded by The Wallace Foundation.

“The benefits of after-school programs are far-reaching and can have a significant impact on the safety and development of our children,” says Mayor Richard M. Daley. “They let young people discover new interests or pursue activities such as art or music. They also support parents who are increasingly busy at work, particularly during the hours between 3 and 6 p.m., the peak period for teens to be victims of crime.”

“The After-School Chicago Web site will make it easier for families to explore and access quality programs that best suit their child’s needs and support their healthy development,” he says.

link