NCJ Number
78165
Date Published
1981
Length
66 pages
Annotation
The LEAA-funded Big Brothers of Greater New Orleans program is evaluated for the period of January 1, 1979 through December 31, 1980.
Abstract
The major goal of the program is to provide boys from fatherless homes (Little Brothers) the companionship of adult male volunteer (Big Brothers). Data were gathered from program and police records. Case records provided information regarding client status, including behavioral and academic ratings. Information on contacts between staff and participants was also collected, and program staff were interviewed. Evaluation results indicate that during the first program year (1979), only 44 (58.7 percent) of the anticipated additional 75 boys were accepted into the program, with 23 (92 percent) of the expected matches (25) with Big Brothers being made. In the second year, 18 additional matches were made. No group meetings were held for mothers of matched Little Brothers in 1979, and no crisis counseling and referral services were established in either year. Although 41 matches were made over the 2-year period, it is questionable whether the program accomplished its goals. One limiting factor was the lengthy processing time for Little Brothers. The report recommends that all processing times be limited to 6 weeks, that steps be taken to obtain better attendance at group meetings for matched and unmatched boys and their mothers, and that program personnel monitor matches more closely to ensure that Big Brothers are maintaining a minimum of 3 activity hours with Little Brothers each week. Program statistics, cost data, sample forms, additional recommendations, and correspondence are included.