In a climate where most people are saving their funds, the Des Moines Rotary Club and Des Moines Legacy Foundation are giving funds back to our community.

For the third consecutive year, the service groups have funded Parks & Recreation's After School Programs at Pacific (ASP@P!) for Pacific Middle School students.

Their philanthropic efforts have funded several free or subsidized recreation opportunities, including: Activity Afternoons, Traveling Teen Tours & Technology Club.

Programs fill the void for teens between the end of the school day and the end of the workday with lasting experiences led by positive mentors.

Research has proven that students participating in high quality after school programs have better peer relations, academic success & in-school conduct than students who do not.

According to School's Out Washington during the hours from 3-6 p.m., "unsupervised children are at significantly greater risk of participating in unhealthy behavior, including substance abuse," and juvenile crime rates are at their peak.

With a little something for most students at free or very reasonable prices, ASP@P!: After School Programs at Pacific is proving to be a great investment in the future of Des Moines.

For more program information, please see the Des Moines Parks & Recreation program listing in the PTSA Newsletter or visit us at www. desmoineswa.gov.

To donate funding for the future of teens through recreation opportunities in Des Moines, please contact our department.

Nic Lind

Recreation Coordinator

Des Moines Parks, Recreation & Senior Services