The AZ STARS Mentoring Project of Pima Prevention Partnership is a collaborative effort to provide best-practice mentoring for children of prisoners (CIP) and children of military parents in Arizona. Pima Prevention Partnership, a non-profit agency, coordinates the program and provides specialized services and training on the unique issues of CIP and military children, and their caregivers. Collaborators work diligently to meet the diverse needs of these children. Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in Maricopa, Pima, Coconino, and Yavapai Counties recruit and screen volunteer mentors and provide case management services. K.A.R.E. Family Centers provide support services for CIP and their families. Prison Fellowship Ministries helps recruit and offer other faith-based support.

The AZ STARS Mentoring Project provides:

• Statewide 1:1 mentoring for over 900 CIP (ages 6-17 years)
• Statewide expansion grant 1:1 mentoring for 300 children impacted by incarceration and children of military parents (ages 9-17)
• Matches that meet at least 1 hour per week for at least 1 year
• Research-proven positive impacts on CIP school performance, communication skills, and self efficacy