Out-of-School Learning

The William Penn Foundation, a private philanthropic organization based in Philadelphia, supports initiatives that foster equitable opportunities for children and families. Through its Children and Families program, the foundation seeks to enhance the well-being and development of young people across the city. One of its current initiatives aims to address the significant gap in access to out-of-school time (OST) programs for children in underserved neighborhoods. These programs provide academic support, social-emotional development, exposure to new experiences, and serve as a critical resource for working families by offering full-day childcare. This initiative is designed to increase participation in OST programs for children ages 3 to 8 throughout Philadelphia, particularly in areas where access is limited due to systemic and economic barriers. Research indicates that OST programming yields significant returns: a 2021 report by the Pennsylvania Joint State Government Commission estimated a return on investment of approximately $6.69 for every $1 spent. Yet, the supply of available programming remains inadequate; for every available OST slot, there are four children in need. Financial constraints also inhibit participation, particularly when families must prioritize basic necessities such as housing and healthcare. To address these challenges, the William Penn Foundation is seeking to fund a broad array of projects that can expand the availability, quality, and accessibility of OST programs in Philadelphia. Eligible activities may include direct support to program providers, investments in infrastructure such as data collection tools, and professional development for educators and facilitators. The foundation encourages organizations to propose approaches they believe will most effectively help achieve the overarching goal of enabling 550 additional children per year to participate in OST programs through 2035. Progress on this initiative will be assessed using third-party analysis of OST supply and demand in Philadelphia and through grantee reporting on enrollment and participation metrics. Applicants are encouraged to consider how their proposals will contribute to measurable outcomes and sustained impact over the long term. While specific funding amounts, submission requirements, and timelines are not detailed in the available material, interested parties are encouraged to contact the program officer directly for further guidance. Amanda Charles, the Program Officer for the Children and Families initiative, is available for inquiries. Her contact information is: amanda@williampennfoundation.org and the foundation’s main phone number is (215) 988-1830. The William Penn Foundation operates out of Two Logan Square, Suite 1100, 100 North 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. Additional details and application portals can be accessed via the foundation’s official website and Grants Portal. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed of updates and opportunities related to this initiative by subscribing to the foundation’s newsletter.