Building Structure and Connection in Foster Youth Mentoring

Salazar, A. M., Spiers, S. S., Fabiyi, D. G., & Thompson, J. (2025). Implementing interventions that include mentoring components with young people with foster care experience: Lessons learned from the field. Child Protection and Practice, 5, 100135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chipro.2025.100135

Introduction

Youth with foster care experience face significant barriers to higher education, including instability and trauma. Mentoring offers a promising support, but programs are difficult to implement effectively. Salazar and colleagues (2025) investigated lessons from the Fostering Higher Education (FHE) program, which provides mentoring alongside educational advocacy to promote postsecondary success.

Methods

The study analyzed qualitative data from three pilot sites (2019–2024), including staff surveys, interviews, technical assistance (TA) evaluations, and meeting notes. Using Creswell’s six-step analysis, researchers identified themes across six mentoring phases: recruitment, training, matching, oversight, group activities, and closure.

Results

Two themes emerged: (1) Procedures and Logistics, and (2) Relationships, Connections, and Engagement.

Procedures and Logistics highlighted the need for clear expectations, flexible scheduling, and transparent timelines. Recruiting diverse mentors was challenging, but interactive, trauma-informed training helped prepare those engaged. Logistical barriers often hindered group activities, though food and incentives boosted attendance. Planned, supported closure prevented harm from abrupt endings.

Relationships, Connections, and Engagement stressed the importance of community partnerships in recruitment, regular mentor check-ins to sustain engagement, and allowing youth choice in mentor selection to enhance fit.

Discussion

Findings confirm that successful mentoring requires both structure and strong relationships. Ongoing technical assistance, mentor engagement strategies, and dedicated mentor coordinators are essential for program sustainability.

Implications for Mentoring Programs

Practitioners should prioritize diverse recruitment, flexible and trauma-informed training, youth choice in matching, structured closure, and sufficient resources for dedicated coordination. These strategies can improve outcomes for foster youth and inform broader mentoring practice.

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