Become a Spark Champion

Schedule a Training for Mentors

This workshop, based on Search Institute's Sparks concept, is designed for mentors, and it is easily combined with MPM's Maximize Your Impact workshop.  To learn about scheduling an on-site, customized Sparks training for your program's mentors, contact April Riordan, Director of Training & Community Partnerships, at (612) 370-9148.

Becoming a Spark Champion is one way mentors can maximize their impact and build a longer, stronger relationship with their mentees.  What is a spark?  A spark is something that gives a person's life meaning and purpose, and discovering and nurturing teenagers' sparks helps them succeed.

Learn more about Sparks and download free resources.

Read What Others Are Saying

"The Sparks program has been a great point of discussion with each of my matches....As I match them I talk about looking for "the spark".  Your recent training here at St. Olaf was very well done, and I received serveral comments from the students who attended.  Thank you, April, for your great work in the field of mentoring." - Kathy Lansing, Project Friendship Program Director

"I really appreciated that the Sparks workshop facilitator explained that we, as mentors, are not there to "fix" our mentees.  I think we are there for support, encouragement, and to be a good role model.  The training also made me think about emphasizing positive characteristics and helping our mentees find their passion." - Kids 'n Kinship Mentor