While we are definitely not in normal times, the 10 local partnerships (located in 8 states) have continued to focus on managing the current situations and climate we are in today and finding creative ways to keep supporting LEAP youth. Recent peer learning calls have provided opportunity and space for folks to have conversations, hear about what’s happening and share challenges, opportunities and what is shifting in light of COVID-19 and the movement for racial equity/justice in our communities and across the network.
The first year of LEAP 2.0 drew to a close on June 30, and the local partnerships have submitted their application outlining their focus and efforts for Year 2 to boost employment and educational opportunity pathway practices. Virtual site visits were conducted in June to help support the planning for this systems and scaling work.
An addendum evaluation is also in process during Year 2. Led by MDRC the goal of this evaluation is to look at continued outcomes for the tail end of the LEAP 1.0 period and to collect more feedback directly from young persons - with a particular focus on how LEAP helps young people to persist and engage in accomplishing their goals.
The planned in-person LEAP convening in San Diego is being shifted to a virtual event this year. We are very disappointed as we hoped to go to San Diego in December and showcase the work the South Bay local collaborative as we brought everyone together. With Casey Foundation, SMI is sending out a survey to the LEAP network and young leaders to get input and ideas on virtual convening options.
The national LEAP youth fellows - a cohort of 10 young-adults - continue their work with Casey Foundation staff and MDRC with the addendum evaluation activities. The Casey Foundation has also provided and invited each fellow to apply for a “mini-grant” to design and lead a project that connects their peers to one another and engages them in their communities. While the mini grant is optional it is a great opportunity for the youth fellow to lead a local community service project and affect the other youth around them.
Read more information on The Annie E. Casey website.