This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Lights On Afterschool celebration, a nationwide initiative that shines a spotlight on the importance of afterschool programs. At CASE (Character and Skills Education), we are thrilled to partner with NAZA (Nashville After Zone Alliance) to celebrate this milestone, highlighting how afterschool programming helps youth grow in leadership, confidence, and character.
At CASE, we believe in charging our students forward with the responsibility to take the lead for Lights On. Each year, we encourage youth to take ownership, from coming up with ideas, planning and gathering supplies, preparing the space and running the event itself. While our teachers are always ready to guide them, it's the students' creativity, teamwork, and leadership that truly shape the celebration. Whether it's organizing activities, serving food, welcoming guests, or even curating a playlist, every student has the chance to contribute and take leadership of the event.
One of the highlights for me during Lights On is talking with parents who come out to support their children. It’s amazing to see parents of students who have been with us for years—like a student who joined CASE in the 5th grade and is now an 8th grader ready to graduate. I had the chance to speak with his mother at our event, and we shared how proud we are of him. Once a shy kid, he now confidently welcomes new students into the program, explaining our agenda and guiding them through activities. Both he and his mom expressed their hope for a program like CASE to exist at the highschool level because of the impact it’s had on the lives of students involved.
Another parent shared her joy in watching her daughter bravely deliver a speech in front of the entire crowd—something she never thought her daughter could do a few years ago. Her mother reflected on the growth and support her child has received, particularly the encouragement from CASE staff and the friendships that her daughter has been able to build in just a short time of being involved in the program. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do.
Our students take immense pride in their work at CASE, and over the course of the program, they learn to step up as leaders, collaborate with others, and build meaningful friendships. Even students who start out shy or unsure of themselves leave with newfound confidence, knowing they belong. After all, isn’t that what afterschool programs are about? Creating a space where youth can be themselves, develop healthy values, and form foundational relationships.
We’re proud to celebrate Lights On alongside afterschool programs nationwide because we believe so strongly in this work. Every child deserves a space where they are encouraged, valued, and pushed to recognize their potential. And we love celebrating the confidence our youth have gained - what better way to do that then to let them throw an event to show it off?!
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