Last week, After-School All-Stars brought together educators, board members, advocates, and changemakers from across the country for Strategy Week 2025—a powerful gathering focused on strengthening our work during a time of growing need and uncertainty.

While funding for out-of-school time (OST) remains unpredictable, our network is doubling down on collaboration, innovation, and bold leadership. Strategy Week was packed with thoughtful discussions and actionable ideas focused on what matters most: ensuring that our students have access to safe, enriching opportunities after school.

Featured Guests and Standout Moments 

We were honored to welcome an amazing lineup of speakers and facilitators who challenged, inspired, and energized us. Omar Johnson (ASAS board member and ØPUS United founder) hosted a high-impact workshop on building persuasive proposals and demonstrated how to responsibly integrate AI into our fundraising work. Yusef García, Principal at Monarq Advisors, led an introspective leadership session on pausing with purpose—inviting attendees to reframe how they lead, make space for reflection, and reconnect with what matters most.

One of the most memorable sessions came from Senator Martha Escutia, Vice President of State Government Relations and Special Counsel at the University of Southern California. She joined Star McReynolds, Director of External Affairs at ASAS Orlando, for a dynamic conversation moderated by Conyers Davis (ASAS board member and Global Director at the USC Schwarzenegger Institute). Together, they unpacked how smart, bold advocacy can unlock state funding and scale impact.

Other speakers included Jessica Gunderson (Co-CEO, Partnership for Children & Youth), Michelle Whiting (Principal, Michelle Whiting & Associates), Valerie Cuevas (Director of Education, California Community Foundation), Eric Rawn (Founder & CEO, Xobee Networks) and Sulaiman W. Rahman (President & CEO, DiverseForce).

A Night to Remember 

Monday night’s dinner featured powerful reflections from inspiring All–Star supporters. ASAS founder Arnold Schwarzenegger shared his enduring passion for OST programs and his vision for the future of All–Stars. Matt Iseman—TV host and longtime ASAS champion—hosted the evening and kept us inspired (and laughing) with his warmth and humor.

Reshanda Gray, a WNBA star and proud ASAS alum, shared her remarkable journey—from All–Star student to professional athlete and nonprofit founder. LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho brought invaluable perspective and heartfelt insights on equity, excellence, and education in LA and beyond.

A Shared Commitment to Students

Throughout the week, one message rang clear: it takes all of us—leaders, educators, mentors, supporters—to make a lasting difference. As after–school programs face increasing political and funding pressures, Strategy Week has deepened our resolve and sharpened our tools to ensure All–Star students can succeed—because every child deserves access to high-quality after–school and summer programs.

We are grateful to everyone who made this extraordinary week possible—especially our guest speakers, session facilitators, and host chapter, ASAS Los Angeles—and to all of you who continue to stand with us in supporting young people nationwide.

Keep the Momentum Going

The inspiration and ideas sparked during Strategy Week are just the beginning. Your support helps turn those bold plans into real opportunities for students nationwide. Help us keep the momentum going and ensure that every student has access to safe, inspiring opportunities beyond the school bell.