START A PROGRAM

Thank you for your interest in starting a formal youth mentoring program. This section will provide you with the resources you need to create a quality mentoring program. This section is set up to follow our Elements of Effective Practice , research- and experience-based guidelines for running safe and effective mentoring programs. The left menu provides categories of resources for:

Program Design and Planning, which includes how to design the program parameters for your program;
Program Management, resources available are related to setting up an advisory group, managing information, fundraising, policies and procedures, advocacy, public relations and building coalitions;
Program Operations encompasses resources for recruitment, screening, orientation and training, matching, activities, ongoing match support and match closure; and
Program Evaluation provides resources for measuring program process and outcomes. In addition, there are a variety of related resources.

Another available resource is the companion Tool Kit to the Elements of Effective Practice. The Tool Kit, How to Build a Successful Mentoring Program Using the Elements of Effective Practice is available in both English and Spanish languages, and includes tools, templates and advice for implementing and adhering to the Elements of Effective Practice--rigorous guidelines that, when followed, will help to ensure quality mentoring.