INDIANA STATEWIDE
Newsletter December 2015
AFTERSCHOOL NEWS AND POLICY INFORMATION


Research shows afterschool programs keep kids & teens out of trouble. 
HERE about Indiana trends in afterschool program participation, the benefits associated with participation in afterschool programs, and measures public support for afterschool programs.

The Every Student Succeeds Act Signed into Law, Preserves 21st CCLC The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was signed by President Obama on December 10, 2015, and represents good news for our nation's schools. This bipartisan measure reauthorizes the 50-year-old Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the nation's national education law and longstanding commitment to equal opportunity for all students. The legislation INCLUDES the Senate bill's language strengthening and reauthorizing the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) initiative that funds local school-community partnerships and provides millions of students and families with access to quality afterschool and summer learning programs! The Afterschool Snack, a blog by the Afterschool Alliance is being regularly updated as ESEA Reauthorization progresses. Learn More HERE.

Marion County Commission on Youth's (MCCOY) Capacity Builder Partner Award
Congratulations to IDOE's 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program manager, DeVonne Richburg, who received the Marion County Commission on Youth's (MCCOY) Capacity Builder Partner Award on Wednesday, December 9, 2015. IDOE 21st CCLC and MCCOY partnered to provide a uniquely designed professional development program for 21st CCLC staff and youth workers through the 21st CCLC Professional Development Academy and MCCOY's Learning Network. More than 21st CCLC 40 staff members join the monthly webinars to discuss a wide-range of topics including Suicide Prevention, Working with LGBTQ Youth, Keeping Staff Engaged, and many more.
Photo: Becky Riech, MCCOY Director of Training (left), Ms. Richburg, and John Brandon, MCCOY President.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for the 2016 Indiana Summit on Out-of-School Learning! #IANsummit2016 
April 11-12, 2016 
Indiana Convention Center, Downtown Indianapolis  
Hosted by the Indiana Department of Education and the Indiana Afterschool Network. The FIFTH Annual Indiana Summit on Out-of-School Learning brings together youth programs and community partners to connect, learn new ideas, access valuable resources, and transform learning beyond the school day for Indiana youth.  
Regular Rate after January 15: $80 

Grant Reviewers Needed for Early Education Matching Grant
The Bureau of Child Care is seeking Early Learning Matching Grant (EEMG) Program volunteer grant reviewers.

Please see the following links for the following:     
- Grant Reviewer Application     
- Grant Reviewer Conflict of Interest Statement

Those Interested must submit an application by Friday, December 18th.
Please direct all questions to: Amanda Lopez at A.Lopez@Transformconsultinggroup.com


AFTERSCHOOL FUNDING
Indiana Youth Institute offers FREE proposal review
If you're applying for a grant, submit your proposal and an IYI consultant will offer you free feedback to strengthen your submission. More HERE.

Office of Early Childhood and Out of School Learning (OECOSL) has released another round of the Early Education Matching Grant (EEMG) funding for the next two school years. This is an opportunity to enroll low-income children in a pre-kindergarten program who would normally not have the resources to attend a high quality early learning program.
Deadline: January 15, 2016
This grant opportunity is open to Paths to QUALITY providers rated at Level 3 and Level 4 (by July 2016) that are located in any county that is not part of the On My Way Pre-K Pilot (Allen, Jackson, Lake, Marion, Vanderburgh). Community-based, including Head Starts, and school-based programs, both public and non-public, are encouraged to apply. Additionally, collaborative efforts among programs will also be considered this year. More details HERE.

Kresge Foundation - Arts & Culture, Health Teams Launch Food-Oriented Grant DEADLINE: January 15, 2016 Amount: Maximum of $75,000 over up to 1 year This program supports food-oriented initiatives that contribute to economic revitalization, cultural expression and health in low-income communities. Organizations and collaborations that lead food-oriented development initiatives in economically distressed urban neighborhoods. More info HERE.  

Innovative Education Award Program with North American Association for Environmental Education
NAAEE's National Project for Excellence in Environmental Education highlights the best practices of nonprofit organizations across the U.S. and Canada that are leading the way to inspire a passion for STEM education in young people through a focus on the environment. The program will invest $250,000 (USD) in environmental and STEM education, sustainable communities and youth empowerment. Information on how to apply is at http://ulinnovationeducation.naaee.net/  Applications are due February 22. You will need to complete the survey at this site to register and receive the application. https://newknowledge.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cBEvvKH6HPvkeDb   

Showcase the great work that is taking place in your afterschool system and ecosystem
Through a newly launched grant competition, LRNG Innovators is challenging teachers and afterschool educators to reach beyond the schoolhouse door to develop partnerships and programs that connect in-school and out-of-school learning and create opportunities for young people to follow their interests and do ambitious work. With support from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, John Legend's Show Me Campaign and the National Writing Project, LRNG Innovators will invest in teams of teachers and educators committed to exploring how learning experiences can move fluidly and coherently across the spheres of formal and informal learning. Grants will be awarded up to $20,000 each. Note: Grants will be welcomed from afterschool programs as long as there is an in-school component to the proposal. Deadline: January 13, 2016 Learn More at: http://bit.ly/1MNCmjF   

Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams™ are comprised of high school students, educators, and mentors that receive up to $10,000 each to invent technological solutions to real-world problems of their own choosing. STEM educators from the continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii, and territories of the U.S. may apply. Deadline: March 7, 2016. http://lemelson.mit.edu/inventeams 

Indiana Sports Corp Susan Williams CHAMPS Grant
The application is now live on The Exchange for the Indiana Sports Corp Susan Williams CHAMPS Grant.  Grants are available up to $7,500 for programs that keep kids active and fit.  For more information set up an account on the Indiana Sports Corp Exchange:  http://exchange.indianasportscorp.org 
Questions, contact Molly Powell, mpowell@indianasportscorp.org Deadline for application is Friday, January 15th.

Ameriprise Financial's priorities are hunger-relief programs targeted to meet the special needs of children and food programs run by nonprofits where hunger is not their sole focus, for example a youth meal program at the YWCA or a backpack program run by a Boys & Girls Club. Other support is provided for basic needs, community vitality and employee volunteer projects. Deadline: January 15 Amount: up to $5,000

Mental Health America of Indiana Funding Opportunity
MHAI is seeking proposals reflecting children's mental health projects for any age from birth to transition age youth. The purpose of the funding is to promote the month of May as Children's Mental Health Month and encourage communities to plan an activity during the spring months of calendar year 2016, and specifically the month of May. These funds are to facilitate public education and collaboration among community agencies around children's mental health to promote mental health and substance use awareness. Funding for each application must range from $1,000 to a maximum of $3,000. MHAI anticipates funding up to 24 projects. All private and not-for-profit organizations are eligible to apply for this funding opportunity. Applications are to be submitted electronically and must be received by December 31, 2015 at 5:00pm EST. For complete details, click here to download the application. https://mhai.net/images/CMH_RFP_2016.pdf   

Walmart Foundation's Community Grant Program awards up to $2500 for local nonprofits in the areas of hunger relief and healthy eating, sustainability, women's economic empowerment, and/or career opportunities. Deadline: December 31, 2015. http://corporate.walmart.com/walmart-foundation/community-grant-program   
2016 #EducationChampion winner gets $1k to support their program! Nominate someone today! Many educators, both traditional and non-traditional, often work long hours with minimal recognition. School on Wheels partners with inspiring educators, youth workers, social workers and volunteers who help students excel in school and life. The Education Champion award recognizes an individual who has devoted his or her time, expertise and focus in supporting youth and championing education. This individual will stand out among their peers as a passionate, dedicated educator. http://indysow.org/educationchampion/

Terri Lynne Lokoff/Children's TYLENOL® National Child Care Teacher Awards
Recognizing the need to raise the status of child care teachers and the need for quality child care, this award acknowledges the critical role of child care teachers in providing quality early care and education. Fifty teachers are selected for their commitment and dedication to the children they serve. Of the top ten recipients, one is selected to receive the Helene Marks Award and is named the National Child Care Teacher of the Year. Each applicant is asked to design a classroom enhancement project for the children they teach illustrating the educational, social, and emotional benefits of the project. Award recipients receive $1,000 - $500 for the teacher's personal use and $500 to implement the project. The Helene Marks Award is presented to the child care teacher who is selected from among the top ten scoring applicants of the National Child Care Teacher Awards. The recipient receives the Helene Marks Award and the honor of being named the National Child Care Teacher of the Year, and an additional $1,000.  http://www.tllccf.org/pr_nccta.php    

The Bright House Classroom Innovators Grants is an ongoing program to assist innovative educators with classroom needs. The program is available to educators who teach K-12 curriculum at public and private schools or at an afterschool nonprofit program that are within Bright House Networks service areas. Recipients are eligible to receive up to one grant per entry period, of no less than $250 and no greater than $500, to assist in their efforts to move students toward a brighter future through innovative learning. Multiple grants per cycle may be awarded within a Bright House Networks service area. The entry period begins September 1, 2015 and ends March 31, 2016. Learn more HERE.

The Build-a-Bear Foundation mission is to add a little more heart to life by providing opportunities for children of all ages to better their communities and share their heart with others. Recipient organization must serve an area within 50 miles of a Build-A-Bear Workshop store. Funds must directly support programs that promote the values of H.E.A.R.T. H - Help communities through volunteering. E - Experience the power of teamwork. A - Accept people's unique differences. R - Respect people and animals. T - Take the lead to drive positive change. Applications are accepted January 1-March 31, 2016. More info HERE.

United States Tennis Association - Line Grants
Make it easier to offer and run tennis programs anywhere: blacktops, gyms, outdoors and more. Adding 36' and 60' playing lines for your school's tennis program will make it easier for organizers and teachers to offer tennis at school, and make it easier for students to learn and excel at the game. The deadline has been extended to apply for line grants from USTA: apply before December 31st, 2015 USTA.COM/LINEGRANTS

The New York Life Excellence in Summer Learning Award and The Founder's Award recognize outstanding summer programs or models that demonstrate excellence in accelerating academic achievement and promoting healthy development for young people between pre-kindergarten and twelfth grade.
The Excellence in Summer Learning Award: Summer learning programs can apply to this award if they are a traditional model that is site and enrollment-based. Additional eligibility requirements are explained during the application process. Applications are due by Monday, Feb. 1, 2016. The
Founder's Award: Programs or summer learning models (local, state, or national) can apply to this award if they operate as a drop-in site or plug-in program used by summer learning programs or are summer-focused. Also eligible are wrap-around programs that do not partner with a traditional site or enrollment-based summer program, but provide learning or enrichment opportunities during the summer. Applications are due by Monday, Feb. 1, 2016. More info HERE.

GenerationOn Joymaker Challenge
During the GenerationOn Joy Maker Challenge, for each kid or teen who volunteers, Hasbro will donate a toy or game to Toys for Tots, up to 1 million dollars' worth. To participate, simply sign up and learn about project ideas and lesson plans, complete a service project between November 23rd and December 23rd, and share the story of your service for a chance to win grants. Learn more and participate in the GenerationOn Joy Maker Challenge. http://generationon.org/joymaker 

       
ONGOING/ ROLLING DEADLINES

Delta Dental Foundation provides financial support through its Brighter Futures Community Grants program to various community organizations and programs which promote/provide oral health care for children. This year, the DDF will be providing $150,000 to support programs which specifically focus on children's oral health. More HERE.

Dorothea Haus Ross Foundation
Supports a wide range of programs that serve vulnerable children including children who are ill, orphaned, disabled, injured, abused or malnourished as well as children with limited or no access to education. Grant range:  $1,000 - $15,000.  Deadline:  rolling. http://www.dhrossfoundation.org/ 

The American Electric Power Foundation considers requests from organizations in communities served by AEP's regional utilities. The Foundation focuses on improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education, protecting the environment, providing basic human services in the areas of hunger, housing, health and safety, and enriching the quality of life in communities through art, music and cultural heritage. Deadline: Rolling Amount: not less than $15,000.
American Family Insurance protects dreams by helping strengthen and support individuals, families, neighborhoods and communities. American Family Insurance also sponsors events and activities that build stronger ties with customers through memorable, beneficial experiences. Deadline: rolling Amount: $250-$10,000 Info HERE.

Signing for Change grants available from $1,000 to $10,000 for nonprofit organizations driving social change in their communities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For more information including selection criteria, click HERE.

Wish You Well Foundation
The Wish You Well Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations that promote family literacy in the United States. The focus of the Foundation's grantmaking is on the development and expansion of new and existing literacy and educational programs. Amount: Up to $10,000 Deadline: Rolling
Finish Line Youth Foundation
The Finish Line Youth Foundation provides funding to organizations that youth athletic programs and sports-based camps, especially those serving disadvantaged and special needs children. Deadline: Rolling  Grants range from $1,000 - $5,000.

Advancing Student Achievement, a program of the Actuarial Foundation
ASA grants support math programs that open students' minds to the practical power of math. The purpose of an ASA grant is to support math enhancement programs that bridge the gap between classroom and real world mathematics. MORE HERE. 
Deadline: Rolling Amount: up to $5,000
   
The First Lady's Foundation exists for the purpose of encouraging and supporting Indiana youth and families. Deadline: Rolling (one application per 365-day period) Amount: $500 or $1,000
Marsh Supermarkets believes that giving back to the community is essential for their growth. Their participation carries forward a long tradition and a steadfast commitment to help improve the quality of life in the communities we serve.  Under $1,000: Six weeks in advance of the event or date needed.$1,000 or more: Six months in advance- preferably by November of the year prior to your event for consideration during annual budget planning.
  http://www.marsh.net/community/marsh-giving/

Sears Holdings
The goal of Sears Holdings is to be part of the community and contribute in ways that enrich the lives of people residing in those areas. By helping to create stronger communities, they enhance the quality of life for customers and associates. Amount varies. Deadline varies.
http://www.searsholdings.com/communityrelations/donate/mmdonations.htm

KeyBank Beyond traditional banking products and services, Key supports communities through the important work of KeyBank Foundation, a nonprofit charitable organization founded in 1969 and funded by KeyCorp. The Foundation's mission is to support organizations and programs that prepare individuals for thriving futures and is advanced through the two funding priorities of thriving students and a thriving workforce. Amount varies. https://www.key.com/about/community/key-foundation-philanthropy-banking.jsp

The Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood provides grants for innovative, creative projects and programs that will significantly enhance the development, health, safety, education or quality of life of children from infancy through five years of age. Amount varies. http://earlychildhoodfoundation.org/

The Bright House Classroom Innovators Grants is an ongoing program to assist innovative educators with classroom needs. The program is available to educators who teach K-12 curriculum at public and private schools or at an afterschool nonprofit program that are within Bright House Networks service areas. Recipients are eligible to receive up to one grant per year of no less than $250 and no greater than $500, to assist in their efforts to move students toward a brighter future through innovative learning.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. More HERE.

My Macy's District Grants support nonprofit organizations and initiatives that are important to individual local communities where Macy's stores are located and that fall within the Macy's focus areas-arts and culture, education, the environment, HIV/AIDS and women's issues. Amount varies. MORE HERE. 

The Children's Obesity Fund offers grants to nonprofit organizations that share its mission for improving children's health. Preference is given to organizations with programs that fight childhood obesity. Amount varies. http://www.childrensobesityfund.org/grantfundraising-faq/

Tyson Foods invests in community projects that make a difference in the Tyson Foods communities where employees live and work. Tyson Foods focuses on hunger relief, health and nutrition, education, community development, and environment and sustainable agriculture. Amount Varies
More HERE

The Baseball Tomorrow Fund (BTF) awards grants to non-profit and tax-exempt organizations involved in the operation of youth baseball and/or softball programs and facilities. Organizations operating in the U.S. and international locations are eligible to apply. To date, an average of 400 requests are received annually; approximately 10 percent are awarded grants. Grants are awarded on a quarterly basis. More HERE

Lockheed Martin: Grants for Education
Lockheed Martin provides grants for K-16 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education. This includes Lockheed Martin's K-12 STEM Education Initiative, Engineers in the Classroom, as well as STEM-focused curricular and extracurricular programs that provide employee engagement opportunities in a community in which Lockheed Martin has employees or business interests. Maximum award: varies. Eligibility: 501(c)(3) organizations that deliver standards-based science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education to students in K-16. Amount: Varies Deadline: Rolling. More HERE.

Reiman Foundation Grant
The Reiman Foundation focuses its giving in four main areas: Health Care, Education, The Arts & Children. Nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply. Deadline: Rolling Award Amount: Vary http://www.reimanfoundation.org/

Let's Play grants offer ten different grant opportunities for organizations in need of support for youth sports or recess equipment, afterschool programming and playgrounds/outdoor fitness equipment. Amount: varies Deadline: varies http://www.letsplay.com/

The Hearst Foundation
Amount varies. Deadline: Rolling
The Hearst Foundations support well-established nonprofit organizations that address significant issues within their major areas of interests - culture, education, health and social service - and that primarily serve large demographic and/or geographic constituencies. http://www.hearstfdn.org/

The Kroger Company Foundation's philanthropic objective is to enhance the quality of life in communities with a concentration of Kroger customers and employees. The Foundation exists for the betterment of the people and communities where Kroger operates.
The PNC Foundation supports a variety of nonprofit organizations with a special emphasis on those that work to achieve sustainability and touch a diverse population, in particular, those that support early childhood education and/or economic development. Amount: Varies
http://www1.pnc.com/pncfoundation/foundation_overview.html

Connect a Million Minds (Time Warner)
Connect A Million Minds supports include after-school STEM programs, mentorship programs that inspire the pursuit of STEM education and careers, STEM-related competitions, visitations to technology companies and labs, and apprenticeship programs.
No deadline. For more information, go to:
 http://www.connectamillionminds.com/request-support 
 
Wells Fargo offers grants to assist a variety of nonprofit organizations that provide human services, community development, educational, artistic, cultural, civic and environmental programs. Applications are accepted in Indiana on a rolling basis; organizations are encouraged to prepare a proposal using the guidelines and contact their local Wells Fargo location to submit an application. https://www.wellsfargo.com/about/charitable/in_guidelines

RGK Foundation awards grants in the broad areas of education, community, and medicine/health. Human service programs of particular interest to the foundation include children and family services, early childhood development, and parenting education. The foundation supports a variety of community improvement programs including those that enhance nonprofit management and promote philanthropy and volunteerism. Youth development programs supported by the foundation typically include after-school educational enrichment programs that supplement and enhance formal education systems to increase the chances for successful outcomes in school and life.  Deadline: Rolling  Amount varies. http://www.rgkfoundation.org/public/guidelines

The World We Want Foundation
Offers youth-led service learning grants.
Deadline: Rolling,  Amount varies. http://theworldwewantfoundation.org

Ford Foundation Educational Grants
The foundation's grantmaking focuses on reducing poverty and injustice; promoting democratic values; and advancing human knowledge, creativity and achievement. Types of grants the foundation makes: General/core support, Project, Planning, Competition, Matching, Recoverable, Individual, Endowment, Foundation-administered project, and Program-related investment. Amount varies. Deadline: Rolling http://www.fordfoundation.org

Share Our Strength Grants
Share Our Strength offers grants to non-profit organizations, schools, and other eligible organizations involved in increasing access to nutrition and anti-hunger advocacy. Amount varies. Deadline: Rolling
http://www.nokidhungry.org/solution/community-investments 
 
Lumber Liquidators offers in-kind donations for nonprofit organizations in need of new flooring for their facilities.
KaBoom! offers "Let's Play Land Use" playground grants. Deadline: Rolling http://kaboom.org/

Public Welfare Foundation is accepting letters of intent from organizations and programs working to end the criminalization and over-incarceration of youth. Deadline: Rolling More info HERE.

The Indiana Division of State Parks and Reservoirs is pleased to offer field trip grants to Indiana educators and their students. Field trips can engage students in learning about Indiana's fish, forest, wildlife, or natural habitats and their conservation, or about Indiana's history and cultural resources as they relate to Indiana State Parks and Reservoirs.  http://in.gov/inrf/educate.html

Half Price Books will consider book donation requests from nonprofit organizations and educators that focus on literacy, the environment, or education.

AND  for more grants-

Afterschool Alliance list of STEM funding
http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/STEMfunding.cfm

STEMfinity STEM Grants Listings: Indiana
http://www.stemfinity.com/stem-grants-indiana

The BOOST Collaborative  Funding Opportunities Listing
Find a long list of grants and deadlines including several open deadline opportunities:
The Youth Today Newsletter Grants Newsletter
Fundsnet
 
GrantStation.com, Inc. offers nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies the opportunity to identify potential funding sources for their programs or projects as well as resources to mentor these organizations through the grantseeking process.   
QUALITY
The Indiana Afterschool Network helps promote and strengthen program quality in out-of-school learning across Indiana.

3 EASY WAYS TO GET STARTED!

1.  Use Indiana's Top Ten Quality Standards for OST as a pathway to quality improvement.

2.  Assess your program sites and organization by using the Indiana Quality Program Self-Assessment (IN-QPSA)

3.  Develop your staff using the NEW! Indiana Academy for Out-of-School Learning.  A high quality, online training specifically designed for Out-of-School Time Professionals

This NEW online PD system was created in partnership with the National Afterschool Association and Child Care Aware and offers the latest in training specifically designed for Indiana's before school, after school, school age child care and summer programs.

Benefits to Your Program and Staff:
*    Professional Development anytime, anywhere!
*    36 Best Practice Learning Modules (2 hours each)
*    Aligned with IN Afterschool Standards and IN Youth Development Credential (IYD)
*    In-depth curriculum content, interactivity and rich visuals
*    Useful resources and real life scenarios
*    Pre- and Post-tests
*    Certificates and User accounts to track progress
*    Customer Service
*    Technical Assistance

Thanks to a generous grant from Lilly Endowment.
 
For more information:
Contact Bri Gaston-Bell
Bgaston-bell@indianaafterschool.org
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATH (STEM) FUNDING AND RESOURCES
STEM Ecosystem Initiative on Indiana Youth Institute 'Kids Count' Radio Show On November 23rd, the STEM Ecosystem Initiative was the topic of conversation on the IYI 'Kids Count' radio show. The participants in the conversation were: Bob Abrams- Indiana Afterschool Network STEM Coordinator, Reginald McGregor- Rolls Royce Corporation and STEM Taskforce Executive Committee, Dr. Shawn Smith- Superintendent of Lawrence Township Schools, Gerald Solomon- Co-chair of the STEM Ecosystems Initiative. To hear the conversation, hosted by Glenn Augustine, Interim President and CEO of IYI, go to http://www.iyi.org/media/kids_count_radio.aspx    

The Indiana Conservation Challenge: A Project Based Learning Initiative  The Indianapolis Zoo wants to inspire students and teachers to take part in local conservation projects through Project Based Learning and Service Learning projects. Our friends at Valley Mills Elementary in Decatur Township have started a recycling initiative to help Indiana wildlife. Learn what you and your students can do to take part in the Challenge HERE.   

Indiana STEM Education Conference - January 14, 2016 
Location - Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana The first-annual Indiana STEM Education Conference will be held at Purdue University on January 14, 2016. The Purdue University College of Education, the Indiana Department of Education, and the Indiana Commission for Higher Education are proud sponsors of the conference. The goal of the conference is to provide a platform for dissemination of data-based, best practice in K-12 STEM teaching and learning in Indiana. There will be three strands that organize the conference: K-12 STEM Practice, STEM Education Research, and STEM resources. To register for the conference, visit: http://www.conf.purdue.edu/landing_pages/stem2016/index.html   

Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams™ are comprised of high school students, educators, and mentors that receive up to $10,000 each to invent technological solutions to real-world problems of their own choosing. STEM educators from the continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii, and territories of the U.S. may apply. Deadline: March 7, 2016.

Youth Building Our Tomorrow after-school robotics program
Youth B.O.T. is a an organization that produces a fun robotics competition for high school students. Our mission is to inspire our youth to build a better future through fun, educational, hands-on learning. Our games incorporate engineering, technology and mathematics in a practical manner. Students are challenged annually to design and build a robotic that will compete against other local teams in a new game that is revealed every November. The league is free to any school/home school/etc. team who would like to join. http://www.youthbot.org/

SEEKING 100 MIDDLE SCHOOL "WATER SOLUTIONARIES!"
Teams of 4 (or more) students accompanied by a teacher sponsor are invited to join IMAGINE: Students for Global and Local Action this school year as we answer a call to action for water stewardship and water justice! Topics to be explored and answered through a service project will include: our individual and collective water footprint and supporting those who do not have access to fresh drinkable water. Featured keynote speaker: George McGraw, Founder and Executive Director of DigDeep and recently seen on CBS Sunday Morning Show. http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-water-lady-a-savior-among-the-navajo/   WATER is THE LIFEBLOOD OF HUMANITY! For more info and to register your team go to: http://www.imaginemiddleschoolprogram.com 

Afterschool Alliance list of STEM funding
Bright House Networks Bright Ideas STEM from Today's Youth
This competition encourages youth ages 14-19 to dream up the coolest inventions and/or ideas using the concepts of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.  Visit the Bright Ideas website to learn more and watch the video about the contestants from last year's competition, including the Indianapolis Division winner, Vikas Maturi, from Carmel High School.
http://brightideas.brighthouse.com/

Indiana Department of Education STEM School Certification Program
For details on the process to earn the IDOE designation of a STEM School, follow THIS LINK Note that, to be certified as an IDOE STEM school, a school must offer an afterschool program in STEM.
 
Connect & collaborate with STEM programs through The Connectory!
With the launch of The Connectory, it's easier than ever for kids to connect with STEM programs and opportunities, and for STEM practitioners to collaborate, develop partnerships, and share resources. This free online collaboration tool gives STEM program providers a chance to find partners based on interests as well as a platform to showcase STEM opportunities to families. Families, in turn, have a free, go-to resource to connect the children in their lives to STEM learning opportunities in their community. http://www.theconnectory.org/   
 
NASA Ignite! Free Curriculum and Training in Indiana
You don't have to be a STEM expert to facilitate fun, hands-on activities to help kids learn about survival in space, how to train like an astronaut, rocketry, and much more. NASA Ignite provides free staff training and easy to implement curricula, games, and videos for afterschool, summer and in-school learning. Each activity gives you a lesson plan, list of supplies, and estimated preparation/implementation time.. Activities are geared toward youth in grades 4-9, but can be modified for any grade level. Contact the NASA Ignite! team to learn more and get started. Visit the Ignite! Dashboard http://ignite.wisdomtools.com for upcoming events, free training materials, webinars, lesson plans, and more.
COLLEGE and CAREER READINESS RESOURCES
ISM College Planning promotes educated decision making for higher education choices to students, families and counselors. Strong choices before college are the best way to limit debt after college. For over 30 years, the goal of ISM has been to provide students and their parents with solutions to help put higher education within reach. To learn more about ISM College Planning please contact us via email, phone, or in person.  http://ismcollegeplanning.org/about-us/

Indiana Department of Education Office of College and Career Readiness This site will provide you with helpful information regarding the new Indiana Academic Standards, as well as information about content subject areas, Career and Technical Education, STEM and eLearning. What does it mean to be college and career ready? In Indiana, this is defined as an individual who has the knowledge, skills and abilities to succeed in post-secondary education and economically viable career opportunities. http://www.doe.in.gov/ccr

The Commission for Higher Education's Outreach Staff are looking to connect with community leaders, volunteers, community-based organizations, college partners and school leaders to trainings and support on enrolling students into the 21st Century Scholars Program, guiding Scholars in the Scholar Success Program requirements and utilizing Learn More Indiana's resources around college planning and career success. To learn more about training and partnership opportunities within your community, please contact your Regional Outreach Coordinator. http://www.in.gov/21stcenturyscholars/2378.htm   

SCHOLARTRACK 
Beginning with the class of 2017, Scholars are required to complete the Scholar Success Program (SSP) http://www.in.gov/21stcenturyscholars/2373.htm requirements each year in order to maintain eligibility. These grade level specific activities are designed to help Scholars stay on track for college and career success. Scholars must log in to ScholarTrack to track their progress. https://secure.in.gov/apps/Che/scholartrack/  All school counselors and administrators should have a ScholarTrack account. Please go to ScholarTrack to register for a school account today! School accounts will allow you to check a Scholar's enrollment status, access school rosters, verify enrollment year and view Scholar's progress with meeting requirements. https://secure.in.gov/apps/Che/scholartrack/   

LEARN MORE INDIANA 
* Visit Learn More Indiana's NEW website: www.learnmoreindiana.org   
* To track your LMI shipment order visit the "Educators" tab on the Learn More Indiana website or go to: http://www.jacksongroup.com/ICHETRACKER/ 
* Counselors and Partners who are in need of Learn More Indiana resources can request materials by completing the following request form. Learn More Indiana Material Request Form. http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2326922/Learn-More-Indiana-Resource-Request 

Indiana Youth Institute's Trip to College Alerts program provides students, parents and youth-serving professionals with the most up-to-date information about preparing for college. Subscribers to this FREE service receive three to four texts per month with reminders about deadlines for tests, applications and financial aid, tips to prepare for college and encouragement to stay on track with postsecondary goals. To sign up, text grad + the student's graduation year (ie: "grad2015") to 69979.
CONFERENCES AND TRAININGS
Professional Development Grants from IYI
IYI offers professional development grants of up to $750 to help youth-serving professionals pay for the registration cost and hotel or travel costs associated with a professional development opportunity. Submit an application by the tenth of the month to receive a decision by the first of the following month. More HERE.

INDIANA
 
REGISTRATION IS OPEN for the 2016 Indiana Summit on Out-of-School Learning! #IANsummit2016 
April 11-12, 2016 
Indiana Convention Center, Downtown Indianapolis  
Hosted by the Indiana Department of Education and the Indiana Afterschool Network. The FIFTH Annual Indiana Summit on Out-of-School Learning brings together youth programs and community partners to connect, learn new ideas, access valuable resources, and transform learning beyond the school day for Indiana youth.  

Join 750 participants to experience: 
* Keynote Speaker Marlin Jackson, former defensive back with the Indianapolis Colts Super Bowl Championship team and founder of Fight for Life, an organization that supports underserved youth. 
* More than 50 innovative workshops on leadership and best practices 
* Special Networking Reception at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center 
* Spectacular exhibit hall 
* Champion awards for outstanding programs  

Be part of our state's most recognized and comprehensive conference on Afterschool! Learn more about becoming a Sponsor, Exhibitor and/or Advertiser. 

Participant Registration is OPEN!
Early Bird Rate: $65 
Regular Rate after January 15: $80 

TRAINING: Suicide Prevention & Youth Mental Health First Aid Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
If someone were to walk into your school, office, or clinic and admit that they wanted to kill themselves, would you or your staff know how to respond? Every school, organization, church, and public safety agency needs someone who can comfortably and competently intervene with those who are desperate, hopeless, and suicidal. ASIST is an evidence-based 2-day intensive and interactive workshop designed to help individuals learn how to intervene with someone who is suicidal. Training in suicide intervention builds skills in de-escalating a suicidal situation and safety planning to help a person at risk get the help that they need.
January, 2015 (TBA) - Attendance both days is required.
8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Lafayette, IN
$175 (ILEA approved; CEUs available from ICA for $10)
Register: Advanced registration required. Email Colleen Carpenter, colleen.carpenter1@gmail.com or call 260­-438­-6763. Registration will be capped at 30 participants.

Indiana STEM Education Conference - January 14, 2016 
Location - Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana The first-annual Indiana STEM Education Conference will be held at Purdue University on January 14, 2016. The Purdue University College of Education, the Indiana Department of Education, and the Indiana Commission for Higher Education are proud sponsors of the conference. The goal of the conference is to provide a platform for dissemination of data-based, best practice in K-12 STEM teaching and learning in Indiana. There will be three strands that organize the conference: K-12 STEM Practice, STEM Education Research, and STEM resources. To register for the conference, visit: http://www.conf.purdue.edu/landing_pages/stem2016/index.html 

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: Being a Culturally Competent Provider Join local adolescent therapist Laura Ingram, LMHC and members of Prism Youth Community, a Bloomington-based group for LGBTQ+ and allied youth ages 12-20, as they discuss how to best support LGBTQ+ youth as a provider. Particular attention will be spent on gender variance and things to keep in mind when working with gender non-conforming youth. At the conclusion of the formal presentation, there will be a panel featuring youth members who will answer questions from attendees. Holiday Inn- 1710 N Kinser Pike, Bloomington, IN
January 20, 2016 - 11:30 am Lunch, 12:00 - 1:30 Presentation. 
More info HERE. 

The Leadership Program Summer Trainings
July 13th and 14th at Conner Prairie Interactive History Park
Many of you know The Leadership Program from their dynamic trainings, but did you know they also have a nationally-recognized, evidence-based leadership curriculum that has been proven to reduce incidents of violence, bullying, and aggression in schools? The Middle and High School student curricula have been recognized by SAMSHA, OJJDP, Crimes.Gov, and others as an effective way to use leadership development as a tool for violence prevention. School districts across the country are getting their staff trained in this curriculum in order to implement it in their schools and programs-why don't you? For more information on how to register, visit: http://theleadershipprogram.com/2016regionaltraining/

Free Domestic Violence 101 and Safe Dates Training for Middle and High School Students
Safe Dates is the only evidence-based curriculum that prevents dating abuse: a factor often linked to alcohol and other drug use. Highly engaging and interactive, Safe Dates helps teens recognize the difference between caring, supportive relationships and controlling, manipulative, or abusive dating relationships. Designated as a Model Program by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. If you or those you know are interested, please contact Amanda Wyneken at Families First Indiana. http://familiesfirstindiana.org

Going Green Festival and Eco-Science Fair
Indiana State Museum- 650 W Washington St. - Indianapolis
Friday, March 18, 2016 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The Indiana State Museum will provide a platform that showcases how individuals and companies can tackle environmental issues at the annual festival. This year's event will showcase eco-friendly products and services, local environmental leaders, lifestyle activities and the Eco-Science Fair.
Video from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPbZoYA5sm4

American Heart Association First Aid & CPR  Camptown can provide your staff with American Heart Association First Aid, CPR, & AED training for as low as $25 per person. We offer the basic Heart Saver program which includes First Aid, CPR, & AED for Adult, Child, & infant or the Basic Life Support (Professional) First Aid, CPR, & AED for Adult, Child, & Infant. Our instructor is an RN with 30 years of experience in hospital, and school settings and holds instructor certification through the American Heart Association and has held the Instructor Trainer certification through the American Heart Association. Trainings are held at the Camptown facility, however arrangements can be made to offer at your facility (additional charges may apply). Our schedule filled quickly last year so reserve your date today!
 Please contact us at info@camptown.net for more information or to schedule your training.

The Indiana Nonprofit Resource Network offers trainings across Indiana on a wide range of nonprofit management topics. The upcoming calendar of workshops and more info here:
http://www.inrn.org/

Indiana Youth Institute Trainings and Cafés NEAR YOU
Topics including Technology Safety, Reaching Uninsured Families and others will be provided at various locations in including: Merrillville, South Bend, Ft. Wayne, Indianapolis, Evansville and New Albany.  More info here: http://www.iyi.org/

        
NATIONAL

National Mentoring Summit
The sixth annual National Mentoring Summit will take place January 27-29, 2016, at the Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown and will explore the theme of "Connection | Growth | Opportunity". The National Mentoring Summit is convened by MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, and garners support from both the private and public sectors. The Summit is expected to bring together nearly 1,000 individuals who represent the mentoring movement, including practitioners, researchers, MENTOR's network of affiliate Mentoring Partnerships, corporate partners, and government and civic leaders. http://www.mentoring.org/our-work/events/national-mentoring-summit/ 

Beyond School Hours National Education Conference
March 9-12. Professional development, networking, inspiration and celebration for national OST educators and leaders. Location: Sheraton Dallas Hotel, Dallas, TX. http://www.foundationsinc.org/beyond-school-hours-xix

2016 National Afterschool Association Convention March 20-23
Join NAA in the Sunshine State at the 27th annual Convention, at the beautiful Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in the Greater Orlando area. Gathered will be the brightest, most passionate, and talented minds in the afterschool community.

Afterschool professionals are superheroes that go above and beyond the call of duty. NAA is committed to helping you grow, share and connect, and our annual convention offers all of that and more across four days of engaging, insightful programming and networking.
Learn More: http://naaweb.org

Ready by 21 National Meeting
March 29-31. Network with 450+ colleagues striving to improve the lives of kids in communities and states across the nation. Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, Baltimore, MD. http://www.readyby21.org/nationalmeeting

BOOST - Save the Date 
Palm Springs, CA 
April 26 - April 29, 2016 

Registration Open for the 13th Global Youth Justice Training
June 14-16, 2016 Cape Cod, MA
The Global Youth Justice 13th Training Institute is designed for individuals and teams of adults from communities interested in Expanding, Enhancing, Network and Learning about volunteer-driven Youth Justice and Juvenile Justice diversion programs referred to as Teen Court, Youth Court, Student Court, Peer Court and Peer Jury. This 3-Day International Training Institute will include 20+ adult Peer to Peer Training Sessions by participants who volunteer to present in addition to other training topics, and a half day grant writing and funding resources session. For complete details visit our website. http://www.globalyouthjustice.org/Training_and_Events.html 
AFTERSCHOOL RESOURCES

Did an educator change your life? Maybe you can return the favor! If you had an Indianapolis Public School teacher or principal that had a life-changing impact on you, why not take a few minutes to change his or her life, too? Nominate them for an award worth $25,000! Learn more HERE.

Inspire Award nominations are now open to honor these people who make an impact on the careers of others through mentoring. Inspire Award nominees make their workplaces, industries, and communities better because they invest in their co-workers, employees, and friends and encourage them to achieve more than they previously thought possible. Nominations are accepted in six industry categories: accounting, legal & finance; business, retail & services; construction, engineering & technology; education, government & nonprofit; health & health sciences;and marketing, media & athletics. For more information visit collegementors.org/inspire 
 
Afterschool and Social and Emotional Learning
Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and skills that ultimately contribute to success in the workplace is a priority for educators and employers. One aspect of employability that has gained attention in recent years is the need for strong social and emotional skills in order to be successful in the workplace. To understand this better, American Institutes for Research (AIR) has developed two new resources on employability skills and social and emotional learning (SEL) for the afterschool field:

Ready for Work? How Afterschool Programs Can Support Employability Through Social and Emotional Learning, a Research to Action brief summarizing research on SEL and support for the development of employability skills in afterschool programs - More HERE.

How Afterschool Programs Can Support Employability Through Social and Emotional Learning: A Planning Tool, a new resource designed to help afterschool program staff foster employability skill building in their programs- More HERE.

Palladium PALS (Performing Arts Literary Season) Book Club
In the Palladium Center's new reading initiative, Palladium PALS, students read books aligned with Center Presents performances and can earn a free ticket to experience a show. Together, the Palladium PALS and Palladium Bookies (the Center's book club for adults), form a literary initiative that spans babies to seniors. Additional information can be found at http://www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org/ReadingInitiative

Congressional App Competition The office of Congresswoman Susan Brooks is pleased to participate in the 2015 Congressional App Challenge. High school students who live in or attend school in Indiana's 5th Congressional District are asked to develop and submit apps for mobile, tablet or computer devices no later than midnight January 15, 2016. Complete rules, sign up and submission instructions may be found HERE. 

National Summer Learning Association (NSLA) recently released three new summer learning research resources in their Research in Brief series: www.summerlearning.org/?page=research_brief  :
· Summer school and reading proficiency
· Calculating the return on investment in summer learning
· Preventing college plans from melting away (a must-read for college access programs)
The entire series comprises short briefs describing seminal and new research on summer learning loss and strategies for combating it. These are especially useful to share with policymakers and funders as you seek to educate them about summer learning issues. 

Reconnecting Kids and Nature Coming Summer 2016: The Children of Indiana Nature Park!
In October, Mary McConnell of The Nature Conservancy spoke at the TEDx Indianapolis event. TEDx Indianapolis celebrates "extraordinary people generating Big Ideas," and this talk was no exception. Mary presented on the Children of Indiana Nature Park, a project which will launch in 2016 that is designed to reconnect kids with nature and foster the next generation of conservation leaders. Enjoy the amazing sights and sounds in this special announcement of the Children of Indiana Nature Park! More information will be provided as the June 2016 park opening draws nearer. The Nature Conservancy will be inviting educators and youth group leaders to help connect youth to nature by implementing environmental education activities that result in each K-12 student receiving an honorary deed to the Children of Indiana Nature Park. In the meantime, contact Melissa Moran at Melissa.Moran@tnc.org or (317) 829-3919 for more information about how your organization can participate.
   
Free Online First Aid and CPR Training
Through December 31, 2015, American Red Cross is making their Family First Aid and CPR online courses available at no cost when you sign up at online http://www.redcross.org/lp/holiday-family-first-aid  These courses cover a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergency topics. Please share this gift with your family and friends and encourage them to choose the free online course that best meets their needs. 

220 Youth Leadership offers personalized leadership coaching for students in middle school all the way through their senior year in college. Our 1-on-1, group, and online programming helps students define personal success for themselves and teaches our unique goal-setting process to give them the confidence achieve their most challenging goals. Through 220 programs, students set tangible near-term goals around leadership development, academic achievement, and improving communication skills. 220 Youth Leadership is determined to raise each students expectations for themselves so that they can achieve their near-term goals and more importantly, their greatest aspirations in life. http://www.220leadership.com/

Youth Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour training which introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge. The course is highly interactive and includes a 200 page resource book. Contact Colleen Carpenter to schedule one in your community or agency colleen.carpenter1@gmail.com, 260­-438­-6763). 

StudentCam is C-SPAN's annual national video documentary competition that encourages students to think critically about issues that affect our communities and our nation. Students in grades 6-12 are asked to create a short (5-7 minute) video documentary on a topic related to the 2016 competition theme, "Road to the White House", and the issue they most want the candidates to discuss during the 2016 presidential campaign. With cash prizes totaling $100,000, C-SPAN awards prizes to 150 student documentaries, and 53 teacher advisors! StudentCam 2016 competition deadline: Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Hedges & Associates 
Are you measuring your program's impact in a way that funders can understand and get excited about? Let the team of nonprofit professionals at Hedges & Associates help you share the true impact of your work so that you can get funded and stay funded. From survey development to data analysis, we've got your program evaluation needs covered. Learn more at www.hedgesandassociates.com   Exploratory meetings welcome!

Hoosier Family of Readers, a literacy initiative of Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz and the Indiana Department of Education, encourages all members of the Indiana Afterschool Network to sign up with First Book. First Book is a non-profit social enterprise that distributes tens of millions of new books and educational resources every year to schools and programs serving children in need nationwide. Their mission is to elevate the quality of education by ensuring that educators and organizations like yours get the resources they need to help kids read, learn and succeed. Register with First Book (it's free!) to peruse their site and discover how you can immediately access books for the students you serve: www.firstbook.org/join

Accessible High-speed Internet- Connect2Compete (C2C) is a national not for profit initiative through Brighthouse, aimed at bringing students and families nationwide online by providing $9.95/month high-speed Internet, low-cost computers and free digital literacy training. Visit www.EveryoneOn.org  for more information or to sign up. INTERNET ESSENTIALS, is a Comcast program designed to expand broadband adoption among low-income American households with at least one child eligible to receive free or reduced price school lunches. To learn more or to apply, please call 1-855-8-INTERNET (1-855­-846­-8376) or visit InternetEssentials.com  

The essential elements of citywide afterschool networks The Wallace Foundation has published a must-read report for all policy makers and afterschool advocates. The new report, Growing Together, Learning Together updates a popular 2008 Report on citywide approaches to afterschool and summer learning. The update highlights four essential components of building a successful citywide system of afterschool support: strong leadership, coordination that fits the local context, effective use of data, and a comprehensive and inclusive approach to quality. More HERE.

The Office of Child Care's Child Care Technical Assistance Network (CCTAN)
Website featuring a wide range of resources to help communities build integrated child care systems that enable parents to work and promote the health and development of children.
https://childcareta.acf.hhs.gov/

Child Care & Early Education Research Connections provides a continually updated, free, and easily searchable collection of research on child care and early education for researchers and policymakers. The Web site, www.researchconnections.org , provides access to more than 25,000 resources, including original scholarly research, government reports, factsheets and briefs, data sets, and instruments.

The Homework Hotline started in 1991 as a toll-free telephone service. Several online features have been added in recent years, and the iPhone app gives students easier access to Rose-Hulman students that are available as hotline tutors from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday during the school year. Supported by the Lilly Endowment, Inc., the Homework Hotline provides toll-free math and science tutoring services by calling 1-877-ASK-ROSE (1-877-275-7673) or through the website www.AskRose.org

Resource available Students Stumped by Studies - Thanks to an innovative Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology student, there's now The AskRose app, which links Indiana middle and high-school students with free homework math and science assistance. The app is available at the iTunes App Store https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/askrose/id560503334?mt=8

2-1-1 is now State-Wide in Indiana!   All 92 counties with all 6,483,802 Hoosiers now have access to the free 24/7/365 service that helps people find the help they need to obtain safe, affordable housing, food and utilities, mental and physical health care, employment, volunteer opportunities and many other things that can lead to happier, healthier, safer individuals and families in our communities. DIAL 2-1-1 TODAY IF YOU NEED HELP OR IF YOU WANT TO GIVE HELP.

Nonprofit Jobs Board
 http://charitableadvisors.myexacthire.com/searchlistings.php 
The Not-for-Profit News has launched a new jobs database, in partnership with ExactHire, which gives nonprofit employers and workers new tools to promote and manage your job searches.  

Charitable Advisors also now has newsletters for northern and southern IN http://www.charitableadvisors.com/subscribe.html
In This Issue
Quick Links
2016 Indiana Summit on Out of School Learning
April 11-12, 2016
Stay tuned for news on the FIFTH Annual Indiana Summit on Out-of-School Learning! This two-day event is the ONLY one designed specifically for out-of-school!
Indiana Afterschool Mapping Database
Search for Programs & Resources OR Add your Program or Resources TODAY!
 
Indiana Afterschool Network
445 N Pennsylvania St. Suite 945 Indianapolis, IN 46204
PH 317.822.8211
Copyright © 2015. All Rights Reserved.