I was inspired to conduct this research project after hearing about opposition to the implementation of The Boys and Girls Club, a non-profit whose mission is “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”, in my hometown of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. I wondered how on Earth anyone could be opposed to a group who wants to help students become “productive, caring and responsible citizens.” I was appalled by some of the flat-out bigoted and discriminatory comments and fears, so I decided to look into the importance of after school programs.

A resident named Jim stated “Another issue I have is property values with these kids around. What’s our property values going to be like? We don’t know. We’re concerned about safety. This goes back to safety” (Garton). Jim shouldn’t be concerned with safety, since one of the primary reasons for having after school programs is to keep kids safe and off the streets. Studies have shown that students who participate in after school programs are less likely to become victims or perpetrators of violence (Strauss). Also, “these kids” are kids who are attending a program in order to have a positive outlet and a safe after school hangout. I don’t thinks it’s fair to assume that kids who attend these programs are “unsafe”.

Another Sun Prairie resident said he’s “thinking about needing a fence.” This statement is ignorant and offensive as he must be assuming that the kids who attend The Boys and Girls club are a threat to the community. After school programs are in place to prevent kids from engaging in risky or unconstructive behaviors. They provide opportunities for growth academically and socially. Without access to after school programs that provide safety, security and social and academic growth, children are more likely to go down the wrong path. If they have nowhere to go, no one to turn to for help, no positive role models, and no outlets for expression in their lives, they may resort to engaging in dangerous behaviors. Having after school programs keeps both students and the surrounding community safer.

Another common concern about implementing after school programs is the economic burden on taxpayers. Jim said “if they [The Boys and Girls Club] don’t have money, why should the city pay for it?” This is a valid concern, ultimately new programs cost money to implement, but I personally believe the benefits outweigh the economic burden. Since after school programs set students up for greater academic and social success, that means they will also be more likely to acquire good jobs in the future and be able to give back to the community.

As someone who believes it is the duty of a community to look out for one another, especially our most vulnerable members (such as at-risk youth), I personally would be willing to let my tax dollars support a program that is going to help improve the lives of young people. We must support one another.