The National Urban League's revised missions are to help African Americans achieve social and economic equality and to promote opportunities for all minorities and the poor. Local affiliates conduct direct service programs in their communities, addressing employment, education, and economic development. All local affiliates have education initiatives or support activities for academic achievement. National programs for youth, adopted by some affiliates, address such topics as academic improvement and motivation, leadership development, and community service. The following selected national associations and resource centers offer information and materials that may be useful to planners of extended-time programs.
Several sources can provide curriculum and program guides as well as technical assistance.
The multi-disciplinary library provides information on promising practices for school and community programs as well as referrals to other organizations. The center offers training for professionals and volunteers using a comprehensive curriculum in parent education and provides consultation on curriculum development, program design, and staff development. Services include numerous professional development resources on issues such as developmentally appropriate practice, curriculum and assessment, standardized testing, and teacher preparation. The National Center for Service Learning in Early Adolescence is a resource for educators, youth workers, and policy makers seeking to meet the developmental needs of early adolescents. NESF supports the use of Dr. W. Edwards Deming's quality principles as one means of transforming American education systems.