Very few mentoring programs have been scientifically evaluated or established as evidence-based practices. However, some programs show empirical evidence that participating youth do better.

This brief looks at ways in which mentoring programs can effectively serve African American boys and presents a list of promising programs with positive outcomes. These programs collectively inform how best to serve this population when mentoring is one part of an overall strategy. The brief outlines core principles for designing and implementing mentoring initiatives for African American boys, and considers implications for practice, particularly for those in the child welfare system.