The COVID-19 pandemic’s lasting impact on hard-hit communities is evident. Loss, trauma, and adversity have affected children and families significantly. A new brief entitled Evidence of Impact of Partnerships to Bolster Impacts of Protective Factors, explores how protective factors identified through resilience research play a crucial role in positive child and youth development, mitigating negative experiences.

Partnerships are essential for supporting whole child recovery. Afterschool programs, acting as community hubs, can unite stakeholders to foster resilience and reduce the impact of trauma on children and youth. Emphasizing protective factors and positive youth development can support children’s social and emotional skills post-pandemic.