The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) released the recent results of the 2021 NRPA Out-of-School Time (OST) Report that is based on survey responses from 331 park and recreation agency directors and recreation leaders. The survey shows that more than four in five agencies offer OST programs.

 

These programs provide millions mentoring, physical activity opportunities, educational support and socialization. The report finds that key benefits of OST programs include childcare for working parents, a safe space for children, physical activity like exercise and sports and socialization.

"Out-of-school time programs offered by park and recreation professionals are essential to the well-being of our youth, and to creating healthy, equitable communities," said Kevin Roth, NRPA vice president of research, evaluation and technology, "This report shows that these professionals are committed to providing high-quality care, and to continuing to expand on current offerings to ensure their programming remains relevant and accessible - especially given the COVID-19 pandemic."

https://www.nrpa.org/about-national-recreation-and-park-association/press-room/park-and-recreation-out-of-school-time-programs-are-vital-for-youth/