California’s Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) is delivering a robust $4 billion annually for free TK–6 after-school and summer programs. But while the funding looks bulletproof, the spotlight is now on delivery—and that’s where the risk for YMCAs shines brightest.
It’s a massive investment—and it’s growing. ELOP offers roughly $4 billion per year to schools, with proposals to add another $435 million starting in 2025–26, making more districts eligible for higher per-student funding.
Funds go to districts, not nonprofits. Districts must offer nine hours per day of extended learning, including summer enrichment, either by building in-house programs or contracting providers.
Spend it—or lose it. Unused funds must be returned within two years. New reporting requirements will track student participation and spending
While the early wave of ELOP saw many districts lean on nonprofits like YMCAs to launch quickly, the landscape is shifting. Some districts are now bringing programs in-house or switching to other vendors, eyeing cost savings, control, or labor agreements.
Why it matters: For YMCAs, winning or keeping a contract now depends on demonstrating unique value—not just filling a need in 2022, but staying indispensable in 2025.
Novato Unified Schools continues to partner with the YMCA to operate ELOP at multiple campuses in 2025–26
A broader example: Districts like West Contra Costa Unified use ELOP dollars to support partnerships with nonprofits, launching creative summer programs across the region
| Strategy | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Showcase outcomes | Evidence trumps emotion—metrics and stories from your program make you irreplaceable |
| Cultivate community voice | Parent and community advocacy swayed Lompoc USD—kept the YMCA in after public outcry |
| Stay nimble | Evolving district needs—be ready to pivot programming or hours, pricing, and overhead |
| Amplify your value | You offer enrichment, safety, and youth development—bring that to every meeting, not just the contract table |
ELOP is a tremendous opportunity for YMCAs—but that doesn’t mean standing still. With the funding safe yet delivery choices in flux, now’s the time to amp up your impact, relationships, and community support to secure your place in tomorrow’s ELOP story.
