Signature Events
Community Champion
The Community Champion Award is presented annually in the spring to a person who has demonstrated exemplary efforts, service, and commitment to the improvement of the lives of children and families in their community.
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2018 - Erin Church, Clyde - Savannah
2019 - Cody Lapp, ​​North Rose – Wolcott
2020 - ​Alicia Linzy​​, Lyons
2021 - Valerie Fanning, ​Sodus
2022 - Nate Hawver​​, Newark
2023 - Cesar Ortiz​, Lyons
2024​ - Jill Harper, ​​​Savannah
2025 - Laura Brown, Wiliamson
Launched in October 2000, Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families, and communities. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates media coverage across the country each year.
Local Afterschool programs have annually supported this event, with family nights, dance parties, Lightbulb Challenge, and other celebrations.
Brantling Mountain Ski & Snowboard Event
Two days every year during February break, we hold our annual Ski and Snowboard Event in collaboration with Brantling Mountain here in Wayne County. Serving up to 150 students, they receive a free lift pass, ski or snowboard lessons, and free rentals if needed. Students enjoy a day of fun on the mountain, learn new skills, and come home more confident, happy, and exhausted! Parents also get in on the fun, as we offer discounted lift tickets for any parent who wants to join in.
Newark Pilots Baseball and Community Resource Fair
In early June we collaborate with Newark Pilots Baseball, for a family night, at Colburn Park in Newark. Beginning with a Community Resource Fair an hour or so before the game begins, we bring in local agencies and businesses to share their resources. Game begins at 5:00, and a lucky student gets to throw out the first pitch.
The Pilots’ players greet the families as they arrive, and play games with the students during the game. Everyone receives a free ticket to the game, a free dinner, and has so much fun!
Free Movies At The Ohmann Theater
Every year, we collaborate with the Ohmann Theater two or three times to offer free movie nights to students and their families. They get a free ticket, a popcorn, and a drink too! Movies are age-appropriate and many times new releases. We sell out the theater with over 300 attendees.