Developing a quantitative risk assessment model for a non-profit mentorship program in Wichita, Kansas

Abstract

One of the most serious challenges facing any social service, non-profit organization is ensuring that the appropriate services are being matched with the individuals who most need these services. Previous research has found that the risk-profile of a youth entering a mentorship program is of particular concern to both the quality of the mentoring relationship and the outcomes of the program for the youth. Using data taken from 427 past youth in a mentoring program, this project investigates the effect of various risk factors on both the outcomes and the quality of that youth's mentoring relationship. Initial analyses indicate that three risk factors matter, but only to individual outcomes. School/work problems and antisocial behaviors are related to multiple outcomes, although generally only when zero-order relations are considered. The key risk factor in this analysis are family/marital issues, which was associated with lower perceptions of academic confidence, lower grades, and lower levels of parental support.