In 1997, The Episcopal Church of the Advent in Kennett Square presented the results of A Time to Listen to the Kennett Community. This report was the result of a community listening study that focused on the quality of life in our community. Over 100 community members were interviewed. The study identified a need for middle-school-aged students, many of whom went home to a house without supervision after school—too old for babysitters, but perhaps too young to be left to their own devices. 

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In 1998, John Wood, Denise Wood, and Marshall Newton led the effort to create the Kennett After-School Association to fill this need. The result of their hard work, dedication, and love for the youth of the Kennett Square community is our unique after-school program, After-The-Bell. At the direction of the Founders, no student or family ever pays for the services offered. 

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The Board of Directors is committed to continuing this extraordinary vision in their memory. After-The-Bell is dedicated to ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of our program and to safeguard the program as a permanent resource for youth in the community.