| Youth mentoring programs have been frequently aimed at the needs of at-risk populations over the past few decades. These programs, such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters have been supported, through research, as offering alternative experiences that are associated with positive academic, social, and psychological outcomes. As these programs have increased in size and scope, it has been essential to appropriately assess them to see whether or not they are effective in assisting at-risk youth. The Department of Health and Human Services of Hoffman Estates, Illinois is considering the development of a similar mentoring program, in collaboration with local elementary schools. As this program is being developed, it is necessary to concurrently develop an empirical evaluation of the proposed program. The development of this evaluation will offer the proposed program the tools needed to assess the future implementation and efficacy of the program, along with ways to refine the program to ensure continued success and funding. |
