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News you can use from APOST

Tools for Virtual Communication
As we all settle into this "new normal" together, of working, learning, and supporting each other from home, there are many new tools for communicating that you may need to get oriented with quickly.

Zoom, if you haven't been using it already, is a great way to connect with co-workers, students, and friends. They are offering special access to their platform during this new work from home era, and you can take advantage of daily demos and webinars, informative blog posts, and tips for effectively working remotely, here. Google Hangouts is another excellent choice for online communication, and free and easy to use if you have a google email account. WebEx is a third tool that is offering free access during the COVID-19 crisis. 

This article outlines all of the best (even more options than the list above) free videoconferencing options you can take advantage of during this time and their different features and options. We hope you are all continuing to hang in there and staying home, as it is the most important thing you can do during this time. See you on the internet!
Virtual OST
Resources
Since many of us will be at home for the foreseeable future, we will continue to share resources and virtual events you can take advantage of during this time. Penn State Extension’s Better Kid Care is an online PD resource. If no certification is required the courses are free! The Healthy Schools PA Public Google Drive is collecting resources for distance and virtual learning, so check out theirs and share yours! The Afterschool Alliance has started a COVID-19 Resource Page for the Afterschool Field that includes guidance, best practices, coping strategies, and more. Lastly, PA 2-1-1 Southwest is also ready to help those in need. See the PA 2-1-1 block below for detailed information. Keep checking the APOST Blog for our full listing of resources, updated weekly. If you have resources or program related updates or information to share, please email meredith.hoppe@unitedwayswpa.org 
COVID-19
Cleaning Tips
In light of COVID-19, we wanted to share a round up of cleaning tips and recommendations, whether you are in need of daily disinfecting a space daily as you modify programs, or if your program space is in need of cleaning for preventive, future purposes. Begin by following the CDC's Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting A Facility. MIT Medical also shares some great tips for cleaning surfaces and personal hygiene.  The state of Washington, where one of the most concentrated outbreaks began, lists how schools and childcare facilities can protect themselves and families from further spread. As we've all heard by now, we should #Dothe5,(wash your hands, cough into your elbow, don't touch your face, keep your distance, stay home if you can) as these are the most effective strategies to flatten the curve and lessen the impact on our healthcare system. Please share these tips widely with your staff, families, and network. 
 
Grants

Teaching Tolerance: Grants that educate youth to thrive in a diverse democracy. Deadline: Rolling
Book Bank: New and donated books and resources. Deadline: Rolling. 
Pittsburgh Foundation: is establishing an emergency action fund for nonprofits. More info to come as they release details. Deadline: TBD
Emergency Fund for Artists: potential $500 support from GPAC for artists at a loss of income due to coronavirus. More emergency arts funding resources here. Deadline: Rolling
Staunton Farm Foundation: capacity building grants and support for 1 year. Deadline: March 31st
Expanding Disability Inclusion and Access: funding for organizations to become more fully inclusive of individuals with disabilities. Deadline: April 1st
PA Food Recovery: Grants up to 200K for shelters, food banks, nonprofit food management. Deadline: April 24th. 
Governor's STEM: $500 grants to students grades 9-12 competing in STEM. Deadline: May 7-8th
 

Common Bytes

Common Bytes teaches kids, families and educators to cook for a healthier life, empowering them to make healthy choices in the kitchen and beyond, and to be change agents in their schools and communities. CT staff are releasing digital content, lessons, and providing technical assistance to anyone wanting to use their platform during this time of isolation and work/school from home. Take advantage of this great offer!

Click here to visit the website. 

Upcoming Events

March 24th: WEBINAR: Bullying Prevention and SEL: What Can I Do Now?
March 25th: Grants Cafe Facebook Group Discussion: Impact of Coronavirus on Grant Seeking
March 25th: Social Emotional Learning and Equity: Follow the Data
March 25th: WEBINAR: Enabling the Remote Workforce
March 25th: WEBINAR: How Video Meetings Enhance Collaboration
March 25th: WEBINAR: Accessibility and Your Front-Facing Staff
March 26th: WEBINAR: Intro to Zoom Webinars
March 26th: WEBINAR: Become an IT Hero: Admin Best Practices
March 31st: WEBINAR: Summer Learning Toolkit & Recruiting and Engaging Students
April 1st: WEBINAR: Positive Youth Development across the Federal Government
April 22nd: WEBINAR: Serving Breakfast After the Bell and Its Impact on Chronic Absenteeism 
April 21-23: WEBINAR: Literacy for Frontline Staff 

For more events, please click the links below:
APOST

APOST Activities
FREE Trainings!

POSTPONED
The Afterschool Bookshelf
Weds, April 1st
10:30AM-12:30PM

Center of Life
 
You Decide 
In light of COVID-19 crisis, Computer Reach is working with Neighborhood Allies to quickly refurbish and release one thousand (1000) Dell i5 laptops. Due to the volume of demand, at this stage, we are working with local non-profit organizations to identify individual families and distribute laptops accordingly. Each laptop has been fitted with a new hard drive, new 90watt charger, Linux software, and is quality tested and cleaned.

Click here to apply.  
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