On March 15th, at the Kansas Enrichment Network’s annual Day at the Capitol in Topeka, HANG12, the Lawrence Arts Center’s youth curatorial board, was invited to the house and senate floors to be recognized as an outstanding out-of-school time program. In addition to celebrating their well-earned recognition, members of HANG12 met with legislators to discuss the importance of funding and supporting K-12 out-of-school time programs across Kansas.

The need for such programs is great. In cities like Lawrence and Topeka, for every youth enrolled in programming, two more are waiting for a slot. In rural areas, that number rises to three. HANG12 joined with students from other out-of-school STEAM programs around the state in pushing to initiate a caucus to address lack of funding. You can support HANG12 in advocating for an Out of School Time Youth Caucus by contacting your state representatives. Find your legislators here!