Strategic Training and Enhancement Project

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.

Metropolitan Family Services will enhance their current mentoring program in this initiative's Focus Area adding or enhancing the training and support available to mentors. The Strategic Training & Enhancement Project (STEP) will strengthen two existing school-based mentoring programs operated by Metropolitan Family Service (MFS) and partners in Portland, Oregon. Both programs employ evidence-based practices to mentor low-income and/or minority, limited-English students in 17 schools. Both programs are intergenerational, with adult mentors working 1:1 with 250 disadvantaged, underserved students. The goal of STEP is to enhance both mentoring programs via increasing training and support for mentors thereby preventing/reducing delinquency, academic failure and high-risk behaviors among youth. The activities include: 20 trainings offered at multiple sites annually, placement of on-site mentor team leaders, and development of on-line mentor trainings/resources. The objectives include: 1) provide comprehensive, accessible training for mentors, 2) provide individual mentor support, and 3) improve learning, behavior and self-esteem among mentees. Progress will be measured via surveys on Teacher/Staff Satisfaction, Mentoring Impact/Satisfaction, Performance Reviews, and mentors' activity logs/timesheets. CA/NCF