Calgary AfterSchool is a First for Canada 

When the city launched its Calgary Afterschool program this fall, it became one of the first municipalities in the country to take a comprehensive citywide approach to providing after school recreation to kids between the ages of 6 and 16. Working with community partners, the aim of this project is to ensure Calgary’s kids can participate in quality, safe and affordable programs between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. 

The City is coordinating hundreds of after school programming opportunities through its Calgary AfterSchool website (calgary.ca/afterschool). It is also increasing the quality of programming by investing funds and involving members of the community in program planning.  

By visiting the website, Calgary parents can find activities ranging from homework help, music, drama, art, sports, leadership, dance, volunteering, cultural activities and educational support.

We’re proud to play a part in this exciting initiative. UpStart is a member of the Calgary AfterSchool steering committee and, in the fall, members of our Council of Champions advocated for the funding by speaking at a city council meeting. 

We all know that kids thrive when they participate in supervised, safe and interesting activities after the school bell rings; let’s keep the momentum going.