Iowa Cancer MAPS: Mentors Assisting and Preparing Survivors Made possible by the Lance Armstrong Foundation Patient & Family Resources Implementation Group Survivorship Project

Iowa Cancer MAPS In November 2007 the IG received funding from LAF for a 2 year implementation grant for the Iowa Cancer MAPS project The goal of Iowa Cancer MAPS is to develop an individualized peer mentorship program for cancer survivors and/or their loved ones who are searching for psychosocial support that fits their needs. This program will match these survivors with mentors –”veteran” cancer survivors-who have been trained to provide emotional, educational, and social support.

Iowa Cancer MAPS In our first year of the grant we: Reviewed existing national peer mentor programs and conducted a lit review of peer mentorship best practices Created program logic model Developed recruitment postcards and posters Developed program intake forms Developed and tested the volunteer training manual Established toll free number: MAPS

Iowa Cancer MAPS October 2008 Currently we are working on the volunteer training curriculum and hope to begin scheduling training sessions for later this year/beginning of next year The Patient and Family Resources IG requested funding from the ICCCC to create and maintain a user-friendly website for the Iowa Cancer MAPS Program Our request was granted!

Next Steps… Use survey monkey to enter participant data and track matches Finish the training curriculum Identify key contacts and begin promoting the program to cancer survivors Design the website Recruit mentors and mentees and begin to make matches Contact matches at 3 and 6 month intervals to evaluate effectiveness and satisfaction with program

Contact Information: Michael Murray Patient and Family Resources Implementation Group American Cancer Society, Iowa Region Melissa Wright, MAPS Project Director Gilda’s Club MAPS ( )