An exceptional afterschool professional who exemplifies the highest standards of positive youth development through mentorship and care, creating a safe and nurturing environment where young people can thrive. 

This prestigious award recognizes an exceptional individual who has made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of young people through their dedication to afterschool programs. The recipient of the Legacy Award embodies the spirit of mentorship, fostering a positive and enriching environment that empowers young people to reach their full potential.

Key Qualities of a Legacy Award Recipient:

• Dedicated: Minimum of five years at a program or minimum of seven years in the OST field.
• Passionate: Demonstrates unwavering commitment to the success of afterschool programs and the well-being of young people.
• Inspiring Mentor: Serves as a positive role model, building strong relationships with young people and providing guidance and support.
• Innovative Leader: Contributes to the development and implementation of creative and engaging afterschool activities that enrich the lives of young people.
• Community Builder: Fosters a strong sense of community within the afterschool program and actively engages with families and the broader community.
• Significant Impact: Has made a lasting and positive impact on the lives of young people, contributing to their academic growth, well-being or life skills.

A professional who works for a Prime Time expanded learning opportunity (ELO) provider who excels in providing high-quality, challenging, learning experiences in the following areas: Supporting School-day Academic Learning, Caring for the Whole Child, Discovering Arts and Culture, Leadership and Career Pathways and Exploring Technology. 

A supporter of the afterschool field who is not employed by an afterschool program and provides support and services or advocates for children in out-of-school time hours, such as an individual volunteer who supports the program or a whole community organization.  Community service organizations, such as Palm Beach County Youth Services Department, Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, Children’s Services Council of Martin County, United Way, Kiwanis, Rotary, elected officials, and faith-based entities are eligible to be nominated.

Afterschool director or any individual who supervises/oversees school-age programming and staff, who excels in fostering high quality within his/her/their afterschool program and provides equal access to opportunities and resources to individuals. This person has shown extraordinary dedication, such as covering multiple roles and responsibilities, creating new policies and schedules, mentoring and developing staff.  

An exceptional afterschool professional (counselor, group leader, activity leader, assistant or aide) who exemplifies the highest standards of positive youth development through mentorship and care, creating a safe and nurturing environment where young people can thrive.