-But Wisconsin Families Still Face an Uncertain Future

It’s been a troubling summer for anyone who cares about children, families, and the thousands of students who rely on summer and afterschool programs across Wisconsin. In early July, without warning and without sound legal authority, the Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) announced it would withhold billions in federal education funds—including money that had already been signed into law months earlier.

Among the funding frozen was support for 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLCs)—the only federal program dedicated exclusively to afterschool and summer learning. In Wisconsin, more than 18,000 students across over 150 programs rely on this funding for safe, enriching places to go when school is out. These programs aren’t extras. They are essential for student success and family stability.

June and July brought turbulence and uncertainty to the out-of-school time (OST) field. What began as concern over the release of 21st Century Community Learning Center funds quickly turned into confusion and frustration when, on July 1st, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) announced that the money would not be distributed to state agencies.

The decision shocked—and angered—many in the OST community. But it also served as a powerful reminder of what unified advocacy can achieve. The Afterschool Alliance, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, state advocacy organizations, and countless other supporters came together with a clear and urgent message: protect afterschool and summer programs for our kids.

That collective action worked. Tens of thousands of letters and phone calls were made. Ultimately, ten Republican senators sent a letter urging the Trump administration and OMB to release the funds. Their intervention proved pivotal—and the funding was restored. It was a critical victory and a compelling example of what happens when we speak with one voice.

This moment offers two key lessons:

1. Unified advocacy works. Because we stood together, funding for 21st Century programs was saved for the 2025–26 school year. Now we must turn our focus to the fiscal year 2026 budget and ensure that children continue to have access to safe, enriching 21st Century Community Learning Center programs.

2. Wisconsin must invest in sustainable state funding. Federal support is not guaranteed. Wisconsin should join the 26 other states that have created consistent, state-level funding streams for OST programs. Today, two-thirds of Wisconsin families cannot access quality afterschool or summer programs. That must change—our kids deserve the same expanded learning opportunities that 21st Century programs provide.

The La Crosse Area Family YMCA believes that access to nutritious food is a fundamental right for everyone in the community. Its comprehensive food programs are designed to ensure that children and families receive the nourishment they need to thrive, particularly during critical times such as summer and after school.

Summer Food Program

In a heartwarming initiative to address food insecurity, the Nekoosa School District has launched a new Food Pantry, thanks to the efforts of an AmeriCorps member and the support of the Wisconsin Partnership Program (WPP) grant. This project is a lifeline for many children and families in the community, ensuring they have access to essential food resources.

A Community United Against Hunger

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin Rapids lies Badger State Farm, an educational oasis dedicated to enriching lives and cultivating knowledge. With a mission that transcends boundaries, Badger State aims to raise funds to support not just their local community, but also their country and the world beyond.

A Diverse and Flourishing Farm

Nestled in Rio, Wisconsin, just over thirty miles from Madison, a remarkable initiative is making waves in the fight against food insecurity. CC Cattle Company, founded by Sam Cooke, is not just a farm; it’s a shining example for many families struggling to put nutritious food on their tables.

A Vision Rooted in Service
Sam Cooke, a Navy veteran, and firefighter has always been driven by a desire to serve. His journey into farming began when he noticed a significant need for fresh meat in local food pantries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing from his farming background, Sam decided to act. He purchased a farm outside the Madison area and established CC Cattle Company with a mission to raise cattle and donate the beef to those in need.

YMCA Youth in Government: Building Future Leaders

As the 2024 state and national elections approach, it is more important than ever to prepare our youth for active civic engagement. Afterschool programs like the Wisconsin YMCA Youth in Government (YIG) provide invaluable opportunities for students in grades 7-12 to understand and participate in government in a hands-on way that classrooms alone often cannot offer.

A Practical Approach to Civic Engagement
While civics and government classes play a vital role in education, the Youth in Government program takes learning to a whole new level. Jolene Gross, the statewide director of the program, explains: