City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MOUNT
VERNON YOUTH BUREAU TO HOST THE NATIONAL
LIGHTS ON AFTER-SCHOOL RESOURCE EVENT
ANNUALLY ON THE THIRD THURSDAY OF OCTOBER
Whereas, by correspondence dated October 1, 2026, the Deputy Director of the Youth Bureau requested that the City Council enact legislation authorizing the Youth Bureau to organize and host the National Lights on After-School Resource Event annually on the third Thursday of October, commencing in 2026 and continuing each year thereafter, subject to applicable City policies, procedures, and requirements; and
Whereas, the National Lights on Afterschool initiative recognizes the importance of providing children and youth with safe, enriching, and supervised activities during the after-school hours, particularly during the critical period between approximately 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.; and
Whereas, positive youth development programs and meaningful after-school activities play an important role in promoting the academic, social, emotional, and overall well-being of children and youth in the community; and
Whereas, the National Lights on Afterschool initiative is a nationwide effort designed to raise awareness of the importance of after-school programs and the critical role such programs play in supporting children, families, and communities; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon will join more than 7,500 sites across the nation in participating in Lights on Afterschool activities to promote positive youth development and highlight the importance of keeping children engaged in safe and constructive activities during after-school hours; and
Whereas, this year, the Mount Vernon Youth Bureau, in collaboration with the Department of Recreation and community-based organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club, Daisy’s Dream, YCOP, New Flex, and other organizations serving the City’s youth, will provide information, resources, and opportunities to children, youth, parents, and families; and
Whereas, the annua...
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