Sustainability In FRC Teams

[RoboMom]

Originally Posted by IndySam

I would like to see the FIRST community address this problem and come up with a way to help team members help sustain those key team leaders. Maybe a care and feeding guide for the key leadership. Ways to support and show appreciation for the mentors and sponsors that hold teams together before it's too late and they are lost.

Some of these suggestions were wrapped into the original mission of the FIRST Senior Mentor project, especially re: support and recognition. I'm retired from the Senior Mentor project so can't speak to what the priorities are now.

FIRST recently did hire someone to focus on the following issues:

The Volunteer Resources Coordinator for Mentor/Coach Relations is responsible for developing and coordinating a mentor/coach services and communications program for all FIRST programs including the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), FIRST LEGO League (FLL) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC.) This position is part of the Volunteer Resources team that recruits, trains, and recognizes FIRST volunteers. The Mentor/Coach Program Services Coordinator will identify Mentor and Coach recruitment and training practices currently used by FIRST and communications methods and, in collaboration with designated program staff, design and implement approved upgrades and enhancements in these areas. This position will also act as the designated Volunteer Resources liaison to FIRST departments and programs