The Gainesville Circus Center buzzed with activity Thursday afternoon as community members gathered to celebrate the national “Lights on Afterschool” event.
First launched in 2000, Lights on Afterschool, now in its 26th year, is an annual event that brings awareness to the importance of after-school programs.
The Children’s Trust of Alachua County (CTAC) sponsored Thursday’s event, with the Gainesville Circus Center serving as the host.
“After-school programs are a vital extension of the school day,” Marsha Kiner, executive director of the CTAC, said in a press release. “They provide children with safe, structured environments where they can continue learning, explore new interests, and build important life skills. When we invest in afterschool, we’re investing in the future of our community.”
The indoor/outdoor event featured interactive activities, such as an inflatable bounce house and crafts, free food and more.
Gainesville Circus Center students also kept families and children engaged with performances, as well as hands-on circus activities.
According to the release, the CTAC funds seven after-school programs throughout Alachua County that serve children in grades K-12.
While speaking at Thursday’s event, Kiner said of the children who are in these programs, 62% demonstrate pre- and post-social emotional development gains, 80% enhance their literacy and 70% improve their math skills. She added that 98% of parents say that kids involved in the programs are safe.
“When we say after-school matters, after-school programs really matter,” Kiner said.
Dr. Corey Cheval, founder and director of the Gainesville Circus Center, shared with the crowd the impact that the CTAC has had on the Circus Center.
“The Children’s Trust really was the catalyst for us to be able to reach our goals and fulfill our mission and vision – and that is making art accessible, supporting families, building community and supporting new artists,” she said.
With the help of three younger volunteers, CTAC Chair Ken Cornell read a proclamation declaring Oct. 23, 2025, as “Lights on Afterschool Day” in Alachua County.
Kiner also acknowledged a similar proclamation by the Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward.
Nick Anschultz is a Report for America corps member and writes about education for Mainstreet Daily News. This position is supported by local donations through the Community Catalyst for Local Journalism Fund at the Community Foundation of North Central Florida.
