The Children's Center of Wayne County Partners With Detroit Public School's Dixon Elementary/Middle in the 10th Annual Lights On Afterschool Event

DETROIT, Oct. 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Detroit Public Schools' Dixon Elementary/Middle and The Children's Center 21st Century Afterschool program are proud collaborating partners in the 10th annual Lights On Afterschool Event, being held October 22, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090423/CCWCLOGO)

This nationwide celebration of afterschool programs will be recognized in 7,500 communities and by 1 million people across the country. The goal of the event is to send a message that afterschool programs are key to children's success, and that we must keep the lights on and doors open after school.

The benefits of quality afterschool programs are clear. They support working families by ensuring that children are safe and productive when the school day ends. As you well know, our children in Detroit deserve safe alternative afterschool initiatives and our schools should play a major part in providing that environment. Quality afterschool programs make our communities stronger by involving students, parents, business leaders and volunteers to give children the opportunity to discover hidden talents as they grow academically and socially.

According to Debora Matthews, CEO of The Children's Center, "It is critical that community partners band together to retain resources to keep kids safe and ensure opportunities to broaden their horizon exceeding their current circumstance. The collaboration between The Children's Center and Detroit Public Schools has provided enrichment to thousands of children over the years and we hope to reach many more in the future."

The Children's Center of Wayne County, located in midtown Detroit, celebrates its 80th anniversary with a rich history spanning over several decades of providing to children and families in the Detroit Public School System.

PHOTO OPS: Thursday, October 22nd at 4:00 p.m., Dixon School, 19500 Tireman, Detroit 48228-2904

• Invited guests Mr. Dave Bing, Mayor of Detroit
• Invited guests Mr. Robert Bobb, Emergency Financial Manager, Detroit Public Schools
• Invited guests Mrs. Debora Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of The Children's Center
  

About The Children's Center

The Children's Center is one of the largest, most diverse and comprehensive frontline child-serving agencies in Michigan, providing over 25 programs addressing therapeutic & mental health needs of children, as well as foster care & adoptions. The Children's Center of Wayne County has been committed to meeting the needs and challenges of some of the most troubled children in the United States for the past 80 years. For more information, please visit The Children's Center web site at www.thechildrenscenter.com.

SOURCE The Children's Center of Wayne County

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http://www.thechildrenscenter.com