CHILD ADVANCEMENT PROJECT

One hour a week. Transformative impact.

The Child Advancement Project (CAP) carefully matches nurturing community volunteer mentors with students in grades K-12. National statistics show mentoring benefits include: a 50% increase in graduation rates, increased lifetime earning potential and decreased justice system costs.

409 Students

363 Mentors

4900 Hours

Ben, a middle schooler, was referred to the CAP program in the fall of 2021. Ben missed over a 100 days of school and was struggling academically and socially. Ben was matched with Andrew, a US Army veteran who was looking to get more involved in the community. Andrew starts each meeting with eye contact and handshake. What seems like such a small gesture really has set a tone for respect and being present. Andrew and Ben have worked on the importance of school and Ben is starting to recognize his potential. Ben has gone from missing over 100 days of school to 30 so far this school year. In addition to his improved attendance, Ben has matured during his time with Andrew. Before Ben would say alarming statements in an attempt to get a rise out of adults and now he is showing respect and kindness to adults and peers.

Gallatin County has the fastest growing Spanish speaking population in Montana. Our Spanish speaking Parent Liaison has worked with 85 new families this school year.

“Many thanks, Mayra. Thank God we have good people who can help us now since before there was nothing. I used to get very depressed with my eldest son and I couldn't communicate with the school, but now that we have someone to help us and we can communicate and feel tranquil.”

Parent in the Bozeman School District