This document explains the advantages of afterschool programs for students and describes the components that make them successful. The major benefits from such programs are increased safety for children, a reduction in risk taking among children participating, and improved learning. Among the elements that characterize high quality afterschool programs are: (1) the establishment of goals, administrative support, and sustainability; (2) qualified personnel; (3) attention to safety, health, and nutrition; (4) efficacious cooperation among programs and the community; (5) strong family participation; (6) educational enrichment activities; (7) effective networking between school personnel and the afterschool program staff; and (8) evaluation of the efficacy and progress of the program. Some descriptions of successful afterschool programs illustrate these components in action. A list of resource organizations and Web sites is attached. (SLD)