The After School and Out of School Time (ASOST) Subgrant for Summer 2025 is a funding opportunity offered by the United Way of Central Massachusetts (UWCM), in collaboration with the United Way of North Central Massachusetts (UWNCM) and the United Way of South Central Massachusetts (UWSCM). This initiative is supported through funding from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The purpose of the ASOST Subgrant is to enhance the availability and quality of summer programming for school-aged youth, aiming to improve academic achievement, college and career readiness, and social-emotional outcomes.
The subgrants are intended for nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations or municipalities that operate ASOST programs outside the traditional school day and serve youth within the designated service areas of UWNCM, UWCM, or UWSCM. Programs must serve students from towns within these United Way jurisdictions or, if located outside these regions, be situated within Region 2 as defined by Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services. Notably, Boys and Girls Clubs and YMCAs are explicitly ineligible to apply.
Programs must provide consistent services to youth at least 3 to 5 days per week, focusing on either academic enrichment or mental health support. Academic-focused programs should provide interactive, real-world, and academically relevant experiences for students from pre-K through grade 12. Mental health-focused programs should integrate embedded mental health services into the curriculum. Priority will be given to proposals aligned with DESE’s educational vision and values, including whole-student support, inclusive and affirming practices, and collaboration with local schools and community stakeholders.
Funding is available for the summer term, specifically from July 1 through August 31, 2025. Award amounts will range from $5,000 to $20,000 per program. The application deadline is Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 5 PM, and proposals must be submitted through the secure e-CImpact online system. Separate applications are required for each service region if the applicant serves multiple United Way areas.
Applicants are encouraged to attend virtual office hours for support, which are scheduled for Friday, May 2 at 10:00 AM and Monday, May 6 at 3:00 PM via Zoom. For additional guidance or inquiries, applicants may contact echo.lahey@unitedwaycm.org.
