Assessing the Impact of Enhancements to Youth Mentoring Programs: Methodological Attention to Inputs Within a Theory of Change

• In Event: Evaluating Advocacy-based Mentoring Models to Prevent and Reduce Delinquency

Abstract

A recent meta-analysis of 73 evaluations of youth mentoring programs identified several circumstances under which these programs were most effective (DuBois et al., 2011). OJJDP designed and implemented a Mentoring Enhancement Demonstration Program (MEDP) to explore the effectiveness of programs that build on the findings from the meta-analysis by adopting evidence-based strategies: incorporating advocacy or teaching roles for mentors by providing ongoing training to mentors support to mentors. Combining all these elements is expected to strengthen outcomes for young people. To test whether the programs have the intended effects on young people, we are currently conducting a multi-site randomized-control trial of the programs funded under MEDP. This paper examines baseline data to develop a profile of the youth served by these programs, with particular attention to the risk for involvement in delinquency. In addition, we examine implementation data on the adoption of the new practices by the 32 mentoring programs participating in MEDP. Implications for the potential impact of the mentoring enhancements on youth outcomes are discussed.

Authors

• Thomas Keller, Portland State University

• David Altschuler, Johns Hopkins University

• Janet Forbush, American Institutes for Research

• Carla Herrera, Independent Consultant

• G. Roger Jarjoura, American Institutes for Research

• Manolya Tanyu, American Institutes for Research