ABOUT
MISSION AND HISTORY
The mission of Arkansas Kids After School Network is to empower and enrich the lives of youth by providing access to quality educational programs, creative arts such as dance, martial arts, acting, and essential entrepreneur skills. We are committed to promoting a safe and positive environment where young people can grow personally, academically, and socially. Through our programs and the ones we serve, we strive to inspire and equip students with the skills and tools they need to achieve their full potential and become successful, responsible members of our community.
ORGANIZATION HISTORY
Our organization was created to bridge the gap in education and creative arts resources across the state of Arkansas. For the past nine years, we've served over 500 youth in cities to overcome diversity and inclusion in creative arts. Our Board of Directors and Staff Members work diligently to incorporate programs that benefit students, parents, and the community. Once a year, we provide free clothing to youth who need it by hosting a "Back to School Fashion Show" each August. In December, we host an event called "Winter Candyland," which provides free clothing for children, entertainment, free food, scholarships, and more. We know the importance of giving back to the community and showcasing to our parents which students have learned and developed while attending our programs. Local School Districts find our organization to be vital to the community for the services we offer and the professional staff that teaches our youth.
STAFF
ADMINISTRATION
CHANTE DUNCAN
SHAMARI JOHNSON
KALI ERBY
LAMARRIUS IVEY
PROGRAM DIRECTORS
CHANTE DUNCAN
ERICA WASHINGTON
LEMARRIUS IVEY
ASHLEY NICOLE
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
AUBREY FAULKS
CANADEE MOSLEY
KALIYAH GILMORE
BROOKLYN BUTLER
EYONA GETER
VOLUNTEERS
NOEL PAYNE
RAMONA SCOTT
ALICIA DUNCAN
...MORE
The Reasons "WHY" AR Kids was created:
Approximately 59,837 children in Arkansas are currently enrolled in after-school programs, but an estimated 125,025 children remain unsupervised after school. Highlighting a significant demand for such resources.
Engaging in creative arts activities- such as dance, visual arts, and theater- supports the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children, helping them express themselves and channel their feelings positively.
83% of parents acknowledged that after-school programs help them maintain their jobs, providing peace of mind that their children are safe and engaged.
Only approximately 45% of youth in Arkansas enroll in at least one form of creative art, which includes 15% of youth in dance, about 20% in visual arts, and 10% in martial arts.
Our programs emphasize academic assistance, creative arts activities, and social-emotional learning (SEL), which are vital for high-need and economically disadvantaged students.
Youth who do not participate in creative arts miss out on opportunities to develop social skills, teamwork, and collaboration. Studies show these same students have lower self-esteem.
AR Kids After School Network Committees
Marketing and Social Media Committee
Director:
Aubrey Faulks
Develops and implements strategic marketing initiatives to promote the organization.
Volunteer Committee
Director:
Kaliyah Gilmore
Oversees volunteer recruitment, training, and coordination.
Communication
Committee
Director:
Brooklyn Butler
Manages internal and external communities.
Tutoring Committee
Director:
Canadee Mosley
Provides academic support and guidance to elementary school children.
Event Committee
Director:
Eyona Geter
Supports marketing efforts and coordinates events.
