Expanded Learning Opportunities Fund Mapping

The Nebraska Children and Families Foundation and the Nebraska Community Learning Centers Network asked the University of Nebraska Public Policy Center to conduct a preliminary analysis of funding that does or could support expanded learning opportunities in Nebraska. “Expanded learning opportunities” programs are those that provide early childhood programs for children from birth to five, afterschool programs for school-age children (including Community Learning Center programs), and parental involvement programs.

The Nebraska Children and Families Foundation and the Nebraska Community Learning Centers Network initiated this project partly at the request of Governor Dave Heineman. In January 2008, Governor Heineman hosted the Governor's Summit for Expanded Learning Opportunities. The Summit explored collaborative efforts of schools and community leaders to create expanded learning opportunities for Nebraska's children and youth. Following the event, Governor Heineman requested a project team to map funding for expanded learning opportunities in Nebraska.

The culmination of the Center’s work was captured in a report that begins to summarize and present current and potential federal, state, local, and private dollars available to support expanded learning opportunities. The report is expected to spur additional fund identification.

Key Partners
Nebraska Children and Families Foundation
Nebraska Community Learning Centers Network

Funding
Nebraska Community Learning Center Network through a grant from the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices