ABC involvement in these Florida communities is an example of how the private sector can influence local school districts in how they serve children and their parents. Quality of before- and after-school programs was a major issue for employees in these communities. In Florida, before- and after-school care is delivered by school districts. However, many working parents felt that the local school districts were not responsive to their needs and not delivering quality programs for their children. The ABC was able to bring principals of local school districts and national experts together to address the issue of quality in their before- and after-school programs. Resulting from those discussions were better child:staff ratios, additional spaces created, and accreditation for many of these programs. Parent advisory boards were also created in several school districts.

Funding Companies

American Express Company
IBM Corporation

Projects

School-Age
First Steps: An Introduction to National Quality Standards

Elder Care
Home Care Worker Recruitment/Training
SeniorNet Computer Learning Center