Local afterschool programs awarded grants

DAYTON/WAITSBURG — Afterschool programs in Dayton and Waitsburg have started the new school year with grant funding.

The Club in Dayton recieved funding from the Educational Service District 123’s Cohort 20 program through its 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative. The ESD123 funding was awarded to programs in three communities, inclucing Dayton, to expand high-quality afterschool and summer learning opportunities.

“Cohort 20 allows us to bring more consistent, high-impact learning time to students and families,” said Margarita Alaman, 21st Century Program Director at ESD 123. “We’re excited to partner with schools and community organizations in Kiona-Benton, Finley, and Dayton to deliver engaging academics, hands-on enrichment, and meaningful family supports.”

The intention of the ESD123 grants is to create a coordinated network of afterschool and summer offerings for academic support, STEM projects, and social-emotional learning to complement the school day.

The Palouse Valley Community Center in Waitsburg was one of 62 nonprofits that received a Pacific Power Foundation grant in September 2025. The foundation’s funding supports growth and vitality in local communities through one of four cycles of charitable investments. The focus of the September cycle is Arts and Culture, with awards of less than $10,000, averaging from $2,000 to $5,000.

“The Pacific Power Foundation is inspired by these critical community-serving organizations that help our region prosper,” said Ryan Flynn, president of Pacific Power. “It’s an honor to support their work in building vibrant communities.”