The Issue
Studies show that more than 14.3 million children in the U.S. are unsupervised between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. every day. Additionally, studies show that youth are at greater risk of involvement in crime, drug abuse, and other destructive behaviors during these hours. High-quality afterschool programs provide a safe alternative for children and produce life-changing, lasting benefits, including healthier lifestyles, improved social skills and enhanced academic performance.
History
The creation of the JCPenney Afterschool Fund was the culmination of a project begun by the J. C. Penney Company, Inc. in 1999. It was at that time that the afterschool community began to mobilize as it recognized the tremendous need for more safe, fun and educational afterschool programs for children across the U.S. and the opportunity to make families more aware of the life-changing opportunities available through quality afterschool programming. In light of the escalating urgency of the situation, the critical need for a charitable foundation dedicated to the afterschool cause became apparent. Out of these heightened concerns and JCPenney Co.’s efforts was born the JCPenney Afterschool Fund, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to ensuring that every child has access to life-enriching afterschool programs that keep them safe and foster their academic, physical and social development.
Our Commitment
The JCPenney Afterschool Fund believes that afterschool is an investment in the future of our children – our nation’s most valuable resource. Through its support to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, YMCA of the USA, National 4-H and United Way, the JCPenney Afterschool Fund has become one of the nation’s largest champions and influencers of the afterschool movement. Since 1999, JCPenney and the JCPenney Afterschool Fund together have contributed over $60 million to the afterschool cause. The Fund continues working towards the day when all children in this nation will benefit from the world of opportunities that awaits them after school.
