Community organizing and advocacy: Increasing the quality and quantity of mentoring programs

Abstract

Although youth mentoring programs are widespread, it is clear that there is a great need to increase their quality and quantity. This article provides background on funding initiatives in mentoring, and the role of community organizing and advocacy in influencing the demand for programs. A model that examines the community's role in influencing and coordinating key stakeholder groups in planning, implementing, and sustaining programs is proposed. The need for more effective programs is examined in a second model, which relates the capacity of organizations, staff, and programs for training and technical assistance to the quality and efficacy of their programs. Recommendations for future research are made. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.