Promoting Health & Wellness
Promoting Health & Wellness
CAN is committed to promoting health and wellness to youth, parents, and communities in California by providing information, resources, promising practices, and legislation updates to the out-of-school time field.
California has the most extensive system of Expanded Learning programs (after school, before school, and summer learning) in the nation, with over 4,500 sites serving over 900,000 children and youth annually. With strong links to medical, mental health, substance use prevention, intervention, and treatment systems, California’s Expanded Learning programs can build upon their foundation for positive youth development and become vehicles for overall Whole Child Health and Wellness.
CAN’s Health & Wellness priorities include:
- Health Care: Medical, dental, and vision care.
- Mental Well-Being: Mental Health, Social Services, and Substance Misuse Supports
- Physical Well-Being: Food Security, Nutrition, and Physical Activity
- Positive Youth Development: Programs as Prevention
Health Care
Medical, Dental, and Vision Care
We are committed to supporting the Whole Child by promoting Health and Wellness through Expanded Learning. Expanded Learning Programs provide access to medical, dental, and vision care resources, ensuring that every student has the foundation to thrive in school, at home, and in their community.
Mental Well-Being
Mental Health, Social Services, and Substance Misuse Supports
Expanded Learning Programs foster safe and supportive environments that prioritize mental well-being and overall health. Through access to mental health care, social services, and substance misuse supports, we help youth and families build resilience, strengthen connections, and thrive in learning and life.
Physical Well-Being
Food Security, Nutrition, and Physical Activity
We support whole child health and wellness by promoting access to nutritious food, encouraging healthy eating habits, and creating opportunities for physical activity. By addressing food security and promoting active lifestyles, we help students establish a solid foundation for lifelong well-being.
Positive Youth Development
Protective Factors, Positive Youth Development & Prevention Outcomes
Expanded Learning aims to design quality programs that strengthen protective factors and empower young people to thrive. By fostering safe spaces, supportive relationships, and meaningful learning opportunities, we promote positive youth development and prevention outcomes that benefit both youth and the communities in which they live.