The ASSAI program in British Columbia stands for the After-School Sport and Arts Initiative. Here’s a breakdown of what it is, what it does, and why it exists:

What Is ASSAI?

Purpose

It offers free after-school programs for children in Kindergarten through Grade 8. 
 

Focus is on sport (physical activity) and creative arts. 
 

Its goal is to reduce barriers to participation for kids who might otherwise not have access to organized sport or arts. These barriers can be financial, geographical, transportation-related, cultural, or due to family circumstances. 
 

Specifically supports under-represented students. 
 
Includes students with disabilities — there is funding for transportation, specialized equipment, or additional staff, case-by-case. 
Also reaches Indigenous students. According to a report, in a recent year, over 1,600 Indigenous students took part. 
 

Program Features

School-based: programs run on school grounds, which helps with accessibility. 
 

High quality: program leaders (coaches, artists) are trained, and sessions are designed to be engaging, developmentally appropriate, and fun. 
 

Snacks: Many ASSAI programs provide healthy snacks for participants. 
 

Supports life skills: Beyond just “play,” ASSAI emphasizes social connection, self-regulation, resilience, and building positive relationships with caring adults. 
 

Administration and Funding

The Province of BC (through the Ministry of Community, Sport, and Cultural Development, among others) funds it. 
 

It’s administered (at least in many places) via DASH BC (the Directorate of Agencies for School Health), which helps with training, planning, evaluation, and connecting programs across school districts. 
 

In 2021-22, more than 9,800 children accessed ASSAI. 
 

Impact

ASSAI aims to build a positive school culture, strengthen students' connection to their school, peers, and caring adults. 
It improves equity and accessibility in after-school programming. Because it's free, held at school, and conscious of barriers, it levels the playing field. 
Helps strengthen life skills: social skills, emotional regulation, self-esteem, and confidence. 
 

Why It Matters

After-school hours are a vulnerable time: Without structured, positive programming, children may be more isolated or less supported. ASSAI gives them a constructive, safe space.

Equity: By reducing barriers (cost, transport, disability), it ensures more kids can participate in sport and arts — not just those who already have resources or parental capacity.

Health & Well-being: Physical activity and creative expression both contribute to better mental and physical health, as well as cognitive and social development.

School Engagement: Programs run in schools, so they can help students feel more connected to their school community, which can improve attendance, behavior, and belonging.