Have you thanked a youth development professional lately? Youth Development Professionals Appreciation Week, which kicks off today, is the perfect opportunity.

Join us as we celebrate with the Kalamazoo Youth Development Network (KYD Network) and the National AfterSchool Association in recognizing the professionals at the heart of our communities’ out-of-school programs.

“We know youth development professionals make a difference in the lives of children and youth by creating innovative learning environments that expose youth to different perspectives, provide time for them to practice and master new skills, and to gain social and emotional learning skills,” said Meg Blinkiewicz, KYD Network Director. “We encourage everyone to join us this week in thanking the youth development professionals who support Kalamazoo youth.”

KYD Network, a United Way partner agency, works with 30 youth development organizations in Kalamazoo County that serve 5,000 youth and employ more than 300 youth development professionals. Nationally, an estimated 10.2 million children participate in youth development programs.

Ways to thank a youth development professional

• Declare on social media: I appreciate the Youth Development Professionals who make a difference in the life of a child. #heartofafterschool
• Give a hand-written card from you and/or your child to the youth development professional in your life.
• Send an email to a youth development professional’s supervisor describing why that person is appreciated.
• Make treats for the staff at your out-of-school time program.
• Join the movement by donating your social media influence at http://bit.ly/heartofafterschool17

To learn more, visit kydnet.org or www.heartofafterschool.com.