The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) are federally funded and historically dedicated to afterschool activities. Even though the focus has been primarily after school, there are now evening and summer programs, as well as, before-school program offerings. The purpose of the 21st Century Initiative is to develop and administer programs that address the needs of students that are most at risk of failing, dropping out, or leaving school without the adequate skills or knowledge to succeed.

In addition to the students who participate, all members of the community benefit from the model which uses schools as a resource that includes teachers, computer labs, gymnasiums, classrooms, and other sites throughout the community. Academic enrichment programs are designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic curriculum and include tutoring, homework assistance, hands-on science, technology programs, and math. There are also outreach programs such as literacy and related educational development services to the families of children who are served through the program.