National nonprofit After-School All-Stars (ASAS) announced the launch of its 13th chapter, ASAS North Texas, which will provide year-round, comprehensive, school-based after-school programs to keep local at-risk youth safe and equip them with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in school and life.
In Dallas County alone, more than 100,000 children between the ages of five and 13 are without adult supervision outside of the home after school.
Beginning this fall, ASAS North Texas will fill a critical after-school need for kids and the community with the launch of school-based after-school programs at KIPP TRUTH Academy in Oak Cliff, a public charter middle school that equips traditionally underserved students in grades 5-8 with the knowledge, skills and character traits necessary to succeed in top-quality high schools, colleges and careers. In addition, ASAS has plans to expand to other schools in the North Texas area next year.
ASAS programs fuel students’ passions by combining academics, enrichment opportunities and health and fitness activities. The programs also will give students a safe haven during the after-school hours when kids are most likely to be exposed to negative influences.
Richardson-based MetroPCS Communications, Inc. has provided the funding to launch ASAS North Texas as part of a multi-year, national partnership with the national ASAS organization. With MetroPCS’ support, ASAS is also expanding its programs in other cities where the nonprofit has existing chapters, including Orlando, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Atlanta, South Florida, New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area.
