Mentor Michigan: The Outdoor Challenge

This solicitation invites eligible applicants to propose research and evidence-based enhancements to mentoring programs based on three strategies: (1) involving the parents and family in activities and services, (2) delivering structured activities and programs for the mentoring matches, and (3) developing training and support for mentors. Research studies and evaluations of best practices have indicated that mentoring programs that provide multiple modes of treatment addressing both individual and environmental characteristics tend to be the most effective. This initiative is authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2009, Pub. L. No. 111-8.

Michigan Community Service Commission will enhance their current mentoring program in this initiative's Focus Area 2 - adding or enhancing the structured activities or opportunities for the mentor and mentoring participants. Mentor Michigan will reduce the frequency and severity of delinquent behavior by providing 100 youth involved in the juvenile justice system in Ottawa and Muskegon Counties, MI with a long term mentoring relationship that engages mentors and mentored youth in structured, outdoor, active, skill building activities. Journey 4-H, the Outdoor Challenge component, will offer matches the opportunity to participate in a six-week session twice a year, with clinics in hiking, mountain biking, paddling, climbing, fishing, etc. The program culminates in a weekend camp-out. Additionally, monthly group activities are planned throughout the year. Journey 4-H will reach a new population of volunteers and provide constructive social activities that offer leadership and skill-building opportunities to participants. Success will be measured by examining youth records, measuring asset development and analyzing the frequency of match meetings and the duration of the relationship. Mentor Michigan will monitor and support the pilot sites to replicate this model throughout the state. CA/NCF