For our third challenge of the 2024-2025 program year, we partnered with the Center for Success Network (CFSN), a nonprofit that unites literacy and community to empower students in the journey of education. Teams of Fellows created recommendations and tangible work products to expand mentorship through different aspects of the mentorship process. Fellows worked alongside Center for Success Network – Andrea Meyer, Heidi Miller, Ingrid White, Maddie Toro, Shanelle Mitchell, Tina Perkins and Adrianne Jackson – as well as engaged with stakeholders, including mentors, board members, caregivers and youth. Learn more about the project from the Fellow perspective!
Fellows (L to R): Brianna Jackson, Heidi Miller (CFSN staff), Nick Wingfield, Lynne Abelgas, Daphne Donigan, Tina Perkins (CFSN Staff), and D’Angelo Robinson
The project kick-off day truly set the tone for what followed. Center for Success Networks’ passion for their mission and deep dedication to the kids was immediately evident and contagious. That energy inspired our team to rise to the occasion—not just because of the mission itself, but because of the commitment we witnessed firsthand. Early in the project, we explored the key question: How might we ensure mentors move through a more streamlined onboarding process? During stakeholder interviews, we found limited insight into the current onboarding experience, as the two mentors we spoke with had completed the process so long ago that details were either unclear or outdated. This prompted us to test the process ourselves, and it quickly revealed numerous opportunities for improvement.
With the goal of creating a smooth and accessible experience for both staff and mentors—especially considering mentors come from diverse backgrounds and may have varying comfort levels with technology—we focused on integrating intuitive and cost-effective tools. We implemented Google Classroom as a centralized space for onboarding and training, providing Center for Success staff with an efficient way to manage and monitor progress. Additionally, we built scripted workflows connecting Google tools with a new work management platform, Monday.com. This integration enables more organized, automated systems for tracking mentors, ultimately making the entire process more streamlined and effective for everyone involved.
Get a glimpse of the project presentation where Fellows presented to our partners, their stakeholders, and host companies here.
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