What are the best practices for developing program outcomes in youth mentoring?

1 Understand the difference between outputs and outcomes

One of the common challenges in developing program outcomes is to distinguish them from outputs. Outputs are the direct products or deliverables of your program, such as the number of mentors recruited, the hours of mentoring provided, or the materials and resources used. Outcomes are the effects or consequences of your outputs, such as the changes in knowledge, skills, attitudes, behaviors, or conditions of your program participants. Outputs are usually easier to measure and report, but they do not capture the true value and impact of your program. Outcomes are more meaningful and relevant, but they require more planning and evaluation to measure and demonstrate.

2 Use a logic model to guide your outcome development

A logic model is a useful tool to help you plan and communicate your program outcomes. A logic model is a visual representation of the relationship between your program inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts. It shows how your program resources and actions lead to your intended results and goals. A logic model can help you clarify your program theory and assumptions, identify your target population and their needs, specify your short-term, intermediate, and long-term outcomes, and link your outcomes to your evaluation methods and indicators. A logic model can also help you align your outcomes with your program mission and vision, as well as with the expectations and requirements of your funders and stakeholders.

4 Involve your mentors, mentees, and other stakeholders in your outcome development

Developing program outcomes is not a one-way or top-down process. It is a collaborative and participatory process that involves your mentors, mentees, and other stakeholders. By engaging them in your outcome development, you can gain valuable insights, feedback, and buy-in from those who are directly affected by your program. You can also ensure that your outcomes reflect the diversity, perspectives, and expectations of your program community. You can involve your mentors, mentees, and other stakeholders in various ways, such as conducting surveys, interviews, focus groups, or workshops, or forming advisory committees, working groups, or steering teams.

5 Review and revise your outcomes regularly

Developing program outcomes is not a one-time or static process. It is a dynamic and ongoing process that requires regular review and revision. As your program evolves and adapts to changing circumstances, needs, and opportunities, so should your outcomes. You should monitor and evaluate your outcomes periodically, using data and evidence to assess your progress and performance. You should also solicit and incorporate feedback and suggestions from your mentors, mentees, and other stakeholders, to ensure that your outcomes remain relevant and responsive. By reviewing and revising your outcomes regularly, you can improve your program quality and effectiveness, as well as demonstrate your program accountability and learning.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?