Created in 2002 in response to a civic outcry for help with activities for the city’s youth during the critical unsupervised hours after school,
ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships has provided after school recreational and enrichment activities to Philadelphia kids in some of the poorest
and most dangerous areas of the city.
The need is great. An estimated 45,000 kids citywide spend between 20-25 hours a week alone after school – with the most dangerous hours between
3 pm and 6 pm. These unsupervised young people are much more likely to be the victims of crime or become involved in risky behaviors. Additionally, lack
of after school activity could be contributing to the rise in overweight children. Recent reports that Philadelphia has both the highest crime and poverty
rates of the ten largest cities in the nation provide strong impetus for improving the lives of the city’s kids.
From its inception, ASAP staff has taken a grassroots approach working with schools, community, faith-based organizations, senior centers, colleges and
universities and police districts targeting areas of the city most affected by violent crime to recruit volunteers and establish safe, stimulating after school activities.
ASAP’s president, Dr. Marciene Mattleman has been the founder and executive director of five non-profit initiatives, one of which – Philadelphia Futures – was
honored at the White House by President Clinton. In addition, she is an education reporter on KYW Newsradio, Philadelphia’s CBS affiliate, and is a board member of several
non-profit organizations, including the American Red Cross, City Year, and the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation. ASAP is a program of GPUAC/Greater Philadelphia
Urban Affairs Coalition, with whom it shares in the mission of improving the quality of life for Philadelphia residents.