Overview

Across the U.S., families are eager for high-quality afterschool programs that offer safety, learning, and social connection during the critical hours when parents are still at work. These programs are proven to help kids thrive, but despite strong demand, millions of children are missing out.

Recent studies show that 22.6 million kids whose parents want them in afterschool programs aren’t able to participate due to cost, availability, and access issues. This missed opportunity impacts not only children but also working parents, local schools, and communities.

At HOKALI, we believe all kids deserve the chance to grow and build important skills after school. We’re committed to closing this gap by providing accessible, high-quality programs that nurture confidence, creativity, and lifelong learning.

Key Data on Afterschool Demand and Missed Opportunities

1. High Demand for Afterschool Programs

Nearly 30 million parents want after-school programs for their children, but 3 out of 4 children whose parents desire these programs don’t have access.

2. Parents See Clear Benefits

95% of parents are satisfied with after-school programs, citing benefits like safety, engagement, and connection for their children.

3. After-school Helps Parents Keep Jobs

4 in 5 parents say after-school programs help them stay employed by reducing absenteeism and job turnover.

4. Afterschool Improves Academic and Social Outcomes

Participation in after-school programs leads to higher school attendance, better homework completion, stronger social-emotional skills, and lower rates of risky behaviors.

5. After-school Supports Economic Stability

Working parents lose an estimated $122 billion annually in productivity due to childcare issues, and nearly 50% of parents say childcare affects their ability to work full-time.

What Gets in the Way: Barriers Limiting Afterschool Participation

Affordability

Cost is the main barrier to after-school programs. Families in higher income brackets spend up to 9 times more on out-of-school activities. Since 2014, average weekly costs have increased by 89%, making even affordable programs unaffordable for many families.

Accessibility & Availability

Demand for afterschool programs far exceeds supply. Over 70% of parents say programs are too full, too far, or unavailable in their area. Rural areas are especially underserved, and urban/suburban families often face long waitlists.

Transportation & Schedule Misalignment

Lack of transportation and misaligned schedules are major barriers. Many families cannot enroll because programs end before parents finish work or lack transport options to get their kids there.

Staffing Shortages

Nationwide staffing shortages are forcing many programs to cut enrollment or close. Low wages and high turnover make it difficult to maintain consistent, high-quality care.

Equity Gaps

Low- and middle-income families struggle the most. Children from wealthier families are more likely to have access to after-school programs, widening the achievement gap and limiting opportunities for disadvantaged youth.

How HOKALI Expands Access and Closes the Opportunity Gap

At HOKALI, we believe every child deserves access to high-quality enrichment opportunities. Our model was built to remove the barriers that prevent families from accessing afterschool programs and to make learning beyond the classroom equitable, affordable, and sustainable.

Affordable and Accessible for Every Family

Our programs are designed to be inclusive and affordable for all schools and families. By partnering directly with districts, we create programs based on community demand, ensuring every child who wants to participate has a spot. Our cost-effective model eliminates affordability as a barrier, making enrichment truly accessible.

On-Site Programs That Simplify Everything

Transportation is never an obstacle. All our programs are hosted onsite, right at the student’s school, so there’s no need for buses, carpools, or complicated schedules. Students transition smoothly from their regular school day into engaging, hands-on afterschool experiences, giving families peace of mind and kids more time to learn and grow.

Empowering Educators Through HOKALI Academy

At our Academy, we support the educators who inspire students every day. Our platform helps them connect, share ideas, and grow through ongoing training and collaboration, creating a strong, motivated community that defines the future of afterschool learning.

Advancing Equity and Expanding Opportunity

We’re closing the opportunity gap by bringing enrichment directly to schools that need it most. We ensure that every student has access to diverse, inspiring, and developmentally aligned activities. Our mission is simple: to make enrichment equitable, sustainable, and within reach for every child.

Building a Brighter Future, Together

The path to equitable afterschool access starts with collaboration. By uniting schools, educators, and families under one shared goal, we are helping transform how enrichment is delivered across communities. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive beyond the classroom.