Springfield School Volunteers (SSV) announced it has been awarded a Mentoring Matching Grant of $26,110 from Mass Mentoring Partnership (MMP), a statewide organization fueling the movement to expand empowering youth-adult relationships in Massachusetts. SSV’s School-Based Mentoring Program is one of 32 mentoring programs throughout the Commonwealth to receive a Mentoring Matching Grant.
Funding for the grants stems from Governor Baker’s FY16 budget, where it was funded at $500,000, through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. It is unique in its use of private-sector support, as grantees are required to match, dollar-for-dollar, the total amount awarded with cash or in-kind resources.
“The funds will be used to support 145 existing mentor matches, which includes ongoing match support, supplies, training, match activities and recognition; as well as to develop new mentor matches, which includes, recruitment, screening, and training,” Denise N. Cogman, CEO of SSV, said.
Funded programs are awarded through a competitive RFP process and community review administered by MMP, and receive training, technical support, and mentor recruitment assistance from MMP.
“We are proud to invest in Springfield School Volunteers with a Mentoring Matching Grant,” MMP President and CEO Marty Martinez said. “This critical funding will allow their School-Based Mentoring Program to support their matches with quality-based, research-driven practices and resources that ensure youth are given every opportunity to develop into productive, successful adults.”
Across Massachusetts, Mentoring Matching Grants will create and support 1,525 high-quality matches – 202 more than last year. It will also support existing matches, leading to improved mentee grades, attendance and attitude towards school, which in turn leads to increased graduation rates, and a better-prepared, more skilled sect of entry-level workers.
