Quote:
Originally Posted by Protronie
Did I miss something? Where are the senior mentors going? What program is in danger of being cut out?
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No, you didn't really miss anything at all. The Senior Mentor project has been funded through a grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service since October of 2004. The initial grant was written/scheduled for two years (the maximum for their grant program), but the foundation was so impressed with the results, it granted a one time exception (something it hasn't done ever before to my knowledge) and has extended the grant through December of 2007.
FIRST already knows the value of the effort and would like to do what it can to help the project to continue. Between now and December, the SM group still under contract will be working with HQ staff to help shape the future of the program (or one like it) beyond 2007. Pursuing new/other grant opportunities or sources of funding, however, will be one key element to sustaining beyond 2007.
Fear not, FIRST is stronger now than it was before the SM's and whatever happens in the future, there are more volunteers, mentors, and supporters now than there were before October 2004.