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St. Louis for Kids Celebrates Afterschool at Lights On Awards Luncheon!!

Lights on Afterschool is celebrated nationwide to call attention to the importance of afterschool programs for children, families and communities. This year, more than 7,500 celebrations took place across the country in support of afterschool programs.

St. Louis for Kids honored several individuals and organizations, including youth workers, afterschool programs, community organizations and dignitaries at its Lights On Afterschool Awards and Recognition Celebration on Tuesday, October 16, 2007 at the James S. McDonnell Plantarium in Forest Park, More than 140 guests were present.

Award winners were:

  • St. Louis ArtWorks was presented with the Omni Light Award for engaging multiple providers in unique arts partnerships for children/youth.
  • Serena Muhammad from St. Louis SCORES received the Radiant Light Award promoting youth participation and empowerment.
  • Progressive Youth Connection was honored with the New Light Award for providing positive outcomes for children/youth utilizing a best practice model.
  • The St. Louis Mental Health Board earned the Spot Light Award for its charitable giving and community investment.
  • Sister Julia Huiskamp, D.C. at the Griffin Center Programs was presented with the Torch Light Award for her continuous commitment to and advocacy for afterschool programs and youth.
  • Governor Matt Blunt was recognized with the Afterschool for All Award for increasing public support and awareness about the importance of afterschool programs.

Keynote speaker Greg Roberts, President and CEO of the Washington, D.C. Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation, shared his insights about the importance of leadership development and capacity building in the not-for-profit community and provided examples of best practices for youth development training programs and specialized afterschool programs. Several dignitaries and community leaders attended the event to honor the awardees, including City of St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, St. Louis Science Center President and CEO Douglas King, State Senator Jeff Smith, State Representative Kathlyn Fares, St. Louis Public Schools CEO Rick Sullivan and State Senator Rita Heard Days. United States Senator Kit Bond was recognized for his support in helping St. Louis for Kids secure the Compassion Capital Fund Demonstration Project Grant.