CELEBRATE Spark the Journey our New NQMS Partners!

MENTOR MD|DC is proud to spotlight Spark The Journey, our newest partner with NQMS. If you follow us on socials, you probably notice that they were our previous Monday Mention across our platforms.

Spark the Journey provides mentorship and a community of support for young adults to chart their own paths to achieving college and career success. Spark the Journey match young adults with a dedicated mentor who works with them on the skills they need to pursue their dreams. A Spark case manager supports each pair in their high school and career training programs to access extensive college and career programming.

Special thanks to Diamond Bell, Associate Director of Recruitment and Admissions at Spark the Journey, for taking time to respond to MENTOR MD|DC questions about the NQMS process.

Spark the Journey is led by Khari Brown, President and CEO, along with Dr. Brandon White, Executive Director. They head a team of 22 full-time employees united by passion for our mission and dedication to our young people.

 What motivated you to sign up for the NQMS process?

“We sought an objective method to evaluate the quality of our program and pinpoint areas for improvement. NQMS provided a structured framework that aligned with our commitment to delivering impactful, high-quality services.”

What was it like to do the NQMS assessment?

“It was a thoughtful and reflective process. While it required time and honesty, it was also empowering to identify our strengths and areas for growth. The tools and guidance provided were clear and helpful.”

 What did you learn from the NQMS process?

“We gained valuable insights into how our systems, documentation, and practices align with national standards. This helped clarify priorities and sparked internal conversations about how to strengthen certain aspects of our program.”

 How was it working with the NQMS Reviewer (Linda)?

“Working with Linda was a wonderful experience. She was knowledgeable, supportive, and constructive. Her approach made the process feel collaborative instead of evaluative.”

Would you encourage other programs to do NQMS? Why?

“Absolutely. It’s a great opportunity for programs to take a step back, reflect, and grow. The process enhances credibility and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.”

What are you looking forward to, as it relates to Spark the Journey’s continuous quality improvement?

“We’re excited to apply what we’ve learned and continue enhancing our program. The NQMS process has laid a strong foundation, and we’re looking forward to ongoing evaluation, innovation, and ultimately, making a greater impact for the young people we serve.”

As previously mentioned, Spark the Journey went through the process with our TA consultant and NQMS Reviewer, Linda Mundy (Pictured Below)

How was the experience doing NQMS with Spark the Journey?

“Spark the Journey’s commitment to excellence as it has evolved its mentoring program was evident as we went through the NQMS Assessment. Their practices, policies, and procedures exemplify that the youth they serve are safe in the programs they participate in and are supported mindfully in a dynamic youth-centered model.”

What do you like about facilitating the NQMS process? / How do you think NQMS affects the young people served by NQMS partners?

“When programs are interested in doing honest self-reflection to identify areas of strength and improvement and make a commitment and plan to do so, this provides a lot of inspiration to me. It is how I try to live my own life. But more importantly, it means that the children and youth being mentored by the program are part of a culture that understands the importance of humility, strength, and self-growth. These are all attributes needed for young people to not only survive but also thrive in our challenging society.”

Why should programs do NQMS?

“There are so many reasons – to improve program quality; focus staff on reflection, celebration, and learning; increase credibility and trust of the program; and ensure the program is aligned with evidence-based practices. Each program needs to identify its needs and goals for the NQMS Assessment and also leave room for some new learning that will be revealed in the process!”