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Matching, training and support enhancements at three mentoring sites in Detroit and Lansing (MI) to demonstrate the effectiveness of advocacy-oriented mentor engagement in serving high-risk youth

Award Information

Award #
2012-JU-FX-0039
Location
Congressional District
Status
Closed
Funding First Awarded
2012
Total funding (to date)
$1,070,000

Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2012, $380,030)

This demonstration program supports collaborations of qualified, established mentoring program sites that enhance (1) the matching of youth and mentors based on needs, skills, experiences, and interests; (2) initial and ongoing training for mentors, and (3) ongoing mentor support. The program aims to improve the effectiveness of mentoring through the systematic implementation of advocacy or teaching functions into mentors' roles. This program is authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2012, Pub. L. No. 112-55, 125 Stat. 552,617.

Two Michigan-based affiliates of the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) network in Detroit and Lansing propose a three-year mentoring enhancement project to reach 275 new children with juvenile delinquency vulnerability. BBBS of Metropolitan Detroit will serve as the managing fiduciary agency, partnering with BBBS of Michigan Capital Region as a co-applicant. Youth primarily ages 12 to 14 will participate in one-to-one mentoring at three distinct sites: 1) Detroit Public Schools; 2) Lansing Public Schools; and 3) Marcus Garvey Academy. A singular program design infusing an advocacy approach into the mentor role will be incorporated into enhanced mentee matching, mentor training, and match support activities. At the three sites, funding will be used to achieve project goals of increasing intentionality in matching youth with mentors, providing tools and training for mentors to serve as advocates, and enhancing match support to promote sustainability and quality of relationships. Outcomes will focus on changing problem behavior (intermediately); and preventing arrest and victimization (long-term). Progress will be measured using data collection and outcome evaluation tools by trained staff certified in national best practices. The sites will collaborate fully with the OJJDP evaluation of this demonstration project.
CA/NCF

Date Created: September 5, 2012