The IMP Family builds genuine relationships

IMP partners with the Johns Hopkins University to build a solid volunteer base, currently consisting of more than 400 student and Baltimore community member volunteers. Volunteers seeking personal growth outside of their academic and/or professional life primarily join IMP to make tangible connections in Baltimore City with students and other volunteers. By using a “do whatever it takes” mentality in creating customized solutions to address the needs of individual student needs, volunteers undergo a process of engagement that pulls from the core values of IMP to transform them from casual volunteers into true Family members.

The IMP Family customizes their approach to address the specific needs of their student. Each IMP Family is led by a Head of Household (HoH) who links program resources with, and coordinates comprehensive services for, students and volunteers. IMP Families work in close collaboration with the biological families, friends, teachers and school administrators to alleviate distractions, allowing students to embrace their education and service to the community. Through a high volunteer-to-student ratio, IMP Families provide a range of services to address basic needs as necessary, including: providing food at all tutoring sessions and IMP Family events; coordinating clothing, shoes, furniture and appliances donations; coordinating home renovations and securing utility supplemental resources; and providing legal advocacy to prevent evictions. As needed, IMP Families help obtain daycare services for siblings, job placement for students and parents, and medical and mental health resources for family members.

As IMP has grown, IMP Houses were created to connect Families from different cohorts. One Family from each cohort is placed in a House that is managed by experienced volunteers called IMP Grandparents. The Family members and students within each House share experience and resources, and older students serve as role models for younger students. The IMP model contributes to high volunteer recruitment and retention because the IMP Families' workload and the emotional burden is distributed across several volunteers, creating an internal support network for all involved. Through this process, IMP Families and Houses become cohesive units through practicing teamwork and leadership built upon the IMP values of: others before self, never give up hope, adaptability, unwavering humility, learning from everyone, and family.