Fact 7

Since 1983, over 10 million Americans have reached the 12th grade without having learned to read at a basic level. Over 20 million have reached their senior year unable to do basic math. Almost 25 million have reached 12th grade not knowing the essentials of U.S. history.

Fact 6

"Youth who participate in mentoring relationships experience a number of positive benefits: better school attendance, a better chance of going to college, lower risk of substance abuse, positive social attitudes and relationships, and better communication with their parents." -- from a study published by Child Trends.

*If you live in New York City, get involved with Operation Exodus weekly Saturday mentoring program! First day is Sept. 18!*

Fact 4

"As many as 15 million kids have no place to go after school." -- U.S Census

Fact 3

"Educational researcher Reginald Clark has documented that economically disadvantaged children who participate from 20-35 hours per week in constructive learning activities during their free time get better grades in school than their more passive peers." -- The Children's Aid Society

Fact 2

"Non-school hours represent the single largest block of time in the lives of American youth. Youth spend about 32% of their waking hours in school. By contrast, about 40% of young people's waking hours are discretionary - not committed to other activities such as school, homework, meals, chores or working for pay." -- The Children's Aid Society

Fact 1

"Violent juvenile crime triples between after-school hours 3:00 - 6:00pm. After-school programs help to reduce youth crime and other at-risk behavior." -- The Children's Aid Society