The Pilot

Pilot Program & Data Collection

YLN’s mentorship cohort is designed as a demonstration pilot with built-in data collection to assess impact and inform scale. Throughout the program, YLN tracks participation, engagement, and youth-reported outcomes using a lightweight, trauma-informed data approach that minimizes burden on youth while providing meaningful insight for partners and funders.

At the conclusion of the pilot, YLN will analyze and report on key indicators, including:

• Attendance and retention across the six-month cohort

• Youth-reported growth in leadership skills, confidence, and sense of belonging

• School-related indicators, such as improved engagement or reduced disciplinary referrals (where data sharing agreements allow)

• System touchpoints, including diversion, probation compliance, or reduced re-referral risk (as available through partners)

• Qualitative feedback from youth and mentors capturing shifts in mindset, behavior, and future orientation

Findings from the pilot will be shared with referral partners, community stakeholders, and funders to demonstrate impact, refine program design, and support future funding and scale. This approach ensures YLN’s mentorship model is data-informed, accountable, and continuously improving, while remaining centered on youth dignity and trust.