Advanced research shows that quality mentoring practices are a determining factor in achieving positive youth outcomes. Through the Quality Mentoring Assessment Path, or QMAP, the Mentoring Partnership of Minnesota (MPM) is increasing the prevalence of quality practices in mentoring programs.
Learn how to get started on the QMAP, as well as what to expect along the way.
The QMAP is a process that uses an online tool to help mentoring organizations extensively assess program management, operations and evaluation methods, based on the best practice guidelines outlined in the Elements of Effective Practice for MentoringTM (EEP). Along with a Quality Advisory Committee of experienced mentoring and evaluation practitioners, MPM developed the QMAP to raise the quality of Minnesota's mentoring programs through a structured, systematic process. The goal of the QMAP is to better understand programs’ current
strengths and help them identify areas for improvement in order to
enhance future program practice and youth outcomes. Watch a playback of MPM's latest webinar about the QMAP to learn more.
A PDF of the QMAP tool is available upon request. - Youth involved in quality mentoring relationships tend to do better in school, reduce risky behaviors, build stronger relationships with adults and become contributing members of society
- Minnesota can expect a return of $2.72 for every dollar spent on quality mentoring programs*
- Many mentors say they benefit from the mentoring relationships as much as the youth
- Mentoring gives our young people hope for their future!
*Based on MPM’s 2007 Social Return on Investment Study 100% of QMAP pilot participants polled said that the QMAP was valuable for their program. Participating in the assessment gives your program access to an extensive collection of resources that correspond to specific best practices, as well as individualized training, technical assistance, and evaluation of your assessment. Completion of the QMAP also gives your program the chance to: - Validate program quality
- Show results in funding applications
- Pinpoint areas for improvement
- Develop an Improvement & Innovation Plan to guide organizational planning
Most importantly, the QMAP checks whether best practices are in place to ensure that youth and volunteers have the best possible mentoring experience. “I was able to effectively communicate the needs of a quality mentoring program to funders and was able to obtain a larger grant this year because of [the QMAP.]”
- Jessica Wheeler, Red Wing YMCA Y-Pals
“The QMAP was a very good tool to use, and [it] made me really evaluate the program and see where changes needed to happen. I was able to make many of those changes, and it has helped me to be a better advocate for the mentoring program.”
- Judy Siebenaler, Wabasha County Youth Link Mentorship “QMAP has been wonderful for my program, and I have received nothing but exceptional support from everyone at the Mentoring Partnership of Minnesota.”
- Children’s Home Society & Family Services Representative
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Mentoring programs that illustrate their commitment to quality by completing the QMAP become MPM's Quality Partners.
Watch a demo and hear from programs that piloted the QMAP.
The QMAP is made possible thanks to generous support from the Curtis L. Carlson Family Foundation.
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