Every Hour Counts
A National Network of Communities Dedicated to Expanded Learning, Equity, & Making Learning Fun
Join us for our 2026 Virtual Conference: Charting the Path Forward in Changing Times!
Join us on June 10-11, 2026 for Charting a Path Forward in Changing Times, our virtual national conference designed for a moment that calls for clarity, connection, and collective action.
As communities navigate shifting landscapes, this gathering brings together leaders from across the country who are committed to strengthening systems, advancing opportunity for young people, and supporting the workforce that makes it all possible.
Together, we will explore what it takes to lead through change by sharing insights, elevating field-driven solutions, and learning from one another as we shape what’s next for youth development systems.
20 Years of Every Hour Counts
This year, Every Hour Counts celebrates a milestone: 20 years of building stronger, more equitable learning systems—together. From a bold idea in 2005 to a thriving national movement of 40 communities today, our journey has been defined by collaboration, courage, and connection.
Now, we’re excited to share our story through a new animated video that honors the people, partnerships, and purpose behind this movement.
Power of Us: Lessons Learned & Actions to Support the Youth Fields Workforce
This conversation centered on the Power of Us Workforce Survey, a groundbreaking national study led by the American Institutes for Research (AIR) and commissioned by The Wallace Foundation. With input from more than 10,000 youth-serving professionals, the survey offers an unprecedented look into the workforce powering afterschool and summer learning.
We invite you to catch up, revisit the conversation, or share it with your network using the recording and resources below.
Youth in Save the Bay's "buoyancy lab" program offered through the Providence After School Alliance's citywide summer learning system race boats that they designed and built.
80% of young people’s waking hours are spent out of school. Young people’s futures are shaped by how this time is spent. From sports to STEM, youth organizing to paid internships, research shows that these experiences are essential for young people’s self-discovery, sense of belonging, social development, and intellectual achievement.
But many young people – those who could benefit the most – lack access to these experiences. Funding is inadequate, programs are fragmented, and quality varies. The resulting patchwork means there are large disparities in participation and resources are wasted.
In communities across the country, leaders are expanding their idea of when, where, and how young people learn and grow. They are recognizing that young people need more than traditional academics to thrive.
Powered by Youth Voice Initiative
Youth as co-designers of solutions to issues impacting their communities!
Resources
