Getting together after school Posted On: Friday, Oct. 23 2009 05:13 AM By Rebecca LaFlure
Killeen Daily Herald

In front of a crowd of screaming children, a group of students read aloud what the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas means to them.

Cameron, 8, looks forward to candy and honey buns. Michael, 8, said he likes attending the club because it makes him feel safe.

Nearly 200 energetic kids piled into the club's Woody Hall Unit gymnasium Thursday for the 10th annual Lights On Afterschool Rally.

It was one of more than 7,500 events around the nation Thursday that emphasized the importance of providing quality afterschool programs for children.

"They're just capable of doing so much. And for them to be sitting at home, they're not fully pushing themselves," said Juanita Hill, director of operations for BGCTX.

According to a new study by the Afterschool Alliance, more than 15 million American children are alone and unsupervised after their school days end.

Teens who don't participate in afterschool programs are nearly three times more likely to skip classes, use drugs, drink alcohol and engage in sexual activity than those who do participate, according to the Afterschool Alliance Web site.

During the celebration, students showed off their skills in a talent show. The children spent three weeks preparing for their big singing debut or synchronized dances.

Students also participated in arts and crafts activities and played a basketball game, among other activities.

"Everything we do here is fun and educational," Hill said. "We're kind of like a second home for them."

Kasim, 7, who wore a paper lightbulb hat at the event, goes to the local Boys & Girls Club after school every day. He said the club's afterschool program keeps him out of trouble.

"I get to play games here and not think about bad stuff," he said.

Daja, 9, who attends every Thursday and Friday, said she looks forward to playing "Dance Dance Revolution."

"We have fun here," she said.

The BGCTX serves about 10,000 children between the ages of 7 to 18 in Bell, Coryell, Williamson and Lampasas counties.

The organization provides children with daily homework assistance, mentoring, activities in character and leadership, health and life skills, education and career, the arts and sports, fitness and recreation.

Contact Rebecca LaFlure at rlaflure@kdhnews.com or at (254) 501-7548.