MENTOR is a nonprofit organization that aims to drive equity and close the mentoring gap through quality mentoring relationships for young people. It is the unifying champion for quality youth mentoring in the United States.
Challenges
MENTOR sought to revamp its hiring practices to align staff diversity with its organizational values but faced constraints in time and resources.
Solution
We partnered with MENTOR to build a competency-based hiring model to recruit candidates from traditionally marginalized identities.
Implementation
We worked closely with MENTOR’s leadership and hiring managers to develop a competency-based hiring model. We defined key competencies, designed outreach strategies, and trained hiring managers in inclusive interviewing techniques to create a more inclusive and affirming experience for candidates.
Results
Over the last few years of our partnership, Positively Partners’ recruitment efforts have nearly doubled the number of BIPOC employees on MENTOR’s staff. In 2024, 50% of the organization’s leaders identify as BIPOC, a significant increase from 11% in 2020.
Our partnership led to a hiring process that better reflects MENTOR’s commitment to equity and inclusion. The competency-based model we implemented together allowed the recruitment process to focus more on the skills and mindset needed for each role, ensuring that every candidate was evaluated fairly and holistically.
Conclusion
By partnering with us, MENTOR enhanced its recruitment practices, creating a more inclusive and supportive process. Our collaboration resulted in a diverse organization that reflects its commitment to mentoring and equity.
