Using Survey Data to Predict Match Success and Guide Interventions

Katharine S. Jacobs
Volunteers SOR responses were examined as possible predictors of future match success. Matches
were categorized as successful if they remained open and active for the minimum commitment defined
by the agency, 12 months for a community-based match or three semesters for a school-based match.
Matches were defined as unsuccessful if the volunteer terminated the match before the minimum
commitment. Matches that were closed due the child or family, such as a child moving away, were not
considered in this analysis.
Statistically-significant differences were seen between these two groups with regards to items seven
and fourteen. A moderate effect was seen in item one.


Based on these findings, program staff was encouraged to intervene based on survey data. That is, they
were to contact volunteers and mediate any problems should a volunteer respond to any of these items,
but most especially items one, seven and/or fourteen, with a below-average response.




1
2
3
4
5
Item
1
Item
2*
Item
3
Item
4
Item
5*
Item
6*
Item
7
Item
8*
Item
9*
Item
10*
Item
11
Item
12*
Item
13*
Item
14
Differences in SOR Responses as a Predictor of
Match Success
Successful Matches
Unsuccessful Matches
* reverse-scored item
The results of this intervention are graphed below.



As seen above, after this new policy was implemented, early match closures (before 12 months)
decreased steadily each month, from 13, to 12, then six and then nine. Data indicate that matches that
close before six months can actually be damaging for a young person. As represented above, those
matches decreased each month from seven, then three and then four.
Overall, it appears this tactic of monitoring the volunteers SOR results and intervening based on the
above items can be an effective method of preventing early match closure, resulting in better outcomes
for youth.
0
2
4
6
8
10
Jan. 2011 Feb. 2011 Mar. 2011 Apr. 2011
Match Closure Length Distribution
< 3 Months 3-5 Months 6-8 Months
9-11 Months 12-17 Months 18-23 Months