High Tech Kids creates a Logic Model and Theory of Change with MENTOR Minnesota
High Tech Kids is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1999 that aims to promote youth STEM programs in Minnesota. High Tech Kids delivers fun, hands-on STEM programs through team-based robotics that inspire Minnesota youth to build confidence, create opportunities, and thrive as the next generation of innovators. Coaches/mentors help kids learn how to collaborate, solve real-world problems, and become leaders as they prepare for events to showcase their work. Since its inception, High Tech Kids has helped over 67,0000 students discover the joys of science and technology, and with the help of more than 2,500 volunteers, they now serve over 7,500 kids across Minnesota every year.
Cheryl Moeller, the Executive Director of High Tech Kids’, had never before seen a Logic Model and Theory of Change. She created one on her own, but was unable to find a template that accurately encompassed all aspects of their program – from their involvement to training and support provided to their mentors and volunteers. Knowing that she wanted to further develop the initial Logic Model she had created, Cheryl reached out to MENTOR Minnesota for support. Through discussions with MENTOR Minnesota, she learned that through TA, they have resources to assist in the creation of a more effective Logic Model and Theory of Change. After Cheryl applied for TA, Emily Geray, the Program Director of MENTOR Minnesota, facilitated the introduction between Cheryl and her TA Provider, Lesley De Paz.
“It really helps to create these with someone that has done it before. They know what should be included and how to present your organization in the best light.”
Throughout the TA experience, Lesley and Cheryl met virtually to work on High Tech Kids’ Logic Model and Theory of Change. Lesley showed patience and support during TA, while able to ask the necessary questions to discern what and how to include each piece of High Tech Kids. Together, with Lesley’s support, a Logic Model and Theory of Change was created through in-depth conversations and reviews about what was needed to be described. The developed Logic Model and Theory of Change now effectively illustrates the programs of High Tech Kids. This Logic Model and Theory of Change will be used to report to the board, onboard new staff, and support sustainability in staffing and project planning. Additionally, the TA received has helped High Tech Kids identify the changes they need to make to their evaluations.
Cheryl expressed her satisfaction with her TA and voiced, “I really appreciated the professionalism of our TA; Lesley had insight that I had not thought about before. She also did lots of the heavy lifting before and after our meetings, so our time was used well when we met.”
Additionally, Lesley stated, “It was an absolute joy to work with Cheryl. She runs her organization in such a clear and kind manner, and you could tell this from our interactions and how she talked about her colleagues and volunteers. I learned so much from her as we worked together to tackle a logic model and theory of change.”