New findings from David DuBois, Ph.D., a nationally-recognized researcher in the youth mentoring field, along with his colleagues confirmed that mentoring programs have a positive impact on a child's life. Research shows that establishing an effective mentoring relationship can happen for young people of all ages and contribute to improved academic achievement, behavior, and social and emotional health.  

DuBois' research comes from a meta-analysis of more than 70 evaluations of mentoring programs from the past decade and among his findings were the following: 

• Mentoring programs over the past decade have been most effective with young people who have pre-existing difficulties or are exposed to higher levels of environmental risk
• Programs matching mentors and mentees according to their interests have yielded greater benefits for participating youth
• Mentees have benefited more in programs that are structured to have mentors offer guidance and act as advocates for their mentees. However, it is important to note that programs should find ways for mentors to take on these roles without crossing boundaries and becoming over-involved in young people's lives.

"Mentoring is a strategic intervention that gives communities a way to multiply their support for young people," said DuBois. "But, funders and policymakers need to understand that they will get the best return with programs that use evidence-based practices, such as mentor screening and training. And, if they do, mentoring can be a strong and positive investment in the future of America's children." LICADD continues to offer its BUDDY Mentoring Program for children of incarcerated parents. For more information about the program, please call Lauren Ventimiglia at 516-747-2606.