In many ways, the field of out-of-school time (OST) in the year 2001 is a study in contrasts. On the one hand, there is unprecedented opportunity for individual programs and the field as a whole to begin building a skilled and stable workforce. Training opportunities are increasing and the emerging field has developed a system of accreditation, credentials, and other higher education opportunities. Yet much of this potential momentum is blocked in a climate of high staff turnover, increased demands for quality, and a lack of consensus as to the field' s identity (Gannett, Nee, & Smith, 2001). The strong economy of the last several years has made matters worse, and a slowing economy will present new and serious challenges around the funding of professional development initiatives.