Research shows that participating in youth sports can lead to immediate and long-term benefits for youth, their families, and communities. 73 percent of parents believe that sports benefit their child's mental health. 1 And they are right! 88 percent of parents believe that sports benefit their child's physical health. -Health.gov

Research shows that high-quality afterschool programs improve students’ educational outcomes, school attendance, and social and emotional learning. Afterschool Alliance claims that quality afterschool programs understand that children and youth in different age groups vary in academic, psychological, and physical activity needs. Consistent participation in afterschool programs has shown lower dropout rates and has helped close achievement gaps for low-income students. For older youth, regular participation in an afterschool program may also reduce risky behaviors and help them gain college and career-needed skills. -NCSL