Interest Form

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does CompassPoint Mentorship work with different artists, or can we choose our own artist for the mural project?

A: CompassPoint Mentorship collaborates with a select group of professional artists who have experience working with youth and creating public art. While we typically match projects with artists from our network based on style compatibility and project needs, we're open to discussing potential collaboration with artists you may suggest who align with our program's values and educational approach.

Q: What is the demographic makeup of the children served by CompassPoint Mentorship? We're interested in working with diverse communities.

A: Many of the high school students in our program are from Asian American backgrounds and we serve youth from a variety of demographic backgrounds and are committed to inclusive programming. We welcome conversations about how we can ensure our mural project at your site reflects and engages with the diversity of your specific community.

Q: How does the financial arrangement work? Will CompassPoint be profiting from using our space?

A: CompassPoint Mentorship is a nonprofit organization, and we do not profit from our mural partnerships. The total cost of a mural project to our organization is approximately $30,000-$40,000, which covers artist fees, materials, student stipends, and program administration. While donations are appreciated to help offset these costs, they are not required. All financial contributions directly support our youth development programs.

Q: What kind of recognition do sponsors receive?

A: Sponsors of our mural projects receive meaningful recognition for their support. Your organization's logo or name will be prominently featured on our website in our sponsors section. We also highlight our generous sponsors in communications to our community, including our email newsletter that reaches families, educators, and arts supporters throughout Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. Additionally, depending on the sponsorship level, we can discuss further recognition opportunities such as inclusion in press releases about the mural project or acknowledgment during any unveiling ceremonies.

Q: What do volunteers do during a mural project?

A: Volunteers play a crucial role in our mural projects by providing support and guidance to our high school student artists. Painting a mural is time-intensive work, and sometimes our young artists need extra hands and encouragement. As a volunteer, you'll help with tasks like preparing the painting area, assisting students with painting techniques, and ensuring everyone has the supplies they need. We're specifically looking for groups of 5 or more volunteers who can commit to supporting students throughout the painting process. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with young people in your community while contributing to a lasting piece of public art. No artistic experience is necessary—just enthusiasm and willingness to pick up a paintbrush!

Q: Is a mural the only option, or are there other partnership opportunities with CompassPoint Mentorship?

A: While our mural program is our primary community partnership opportunity, we're always open to discussing other potential collaborations that align with our mission of youth empowerment through arts and mentorship. If you're interested in partnering but a mural isn't the right fit, we'd be happy to explore alternative ways to work together.

Q: What insurance and liability coverage does CompassPoint Mentorship have for the children working on your property?

A: CompassPoint Mentorship carries comprehensive liability insurance that covers all participants in our programs, including our student volunteers, while they are working on partner properties. We can provide a certificate of insurance naming your organization as an additional insured for the duration of the project. All students also have signed parental permission forms and release waivers before participating.

Q: What will be required from our host organization in terms of time commitment and resources?

A: We strive to make the partnership process as streamlined as possible for our partners. Your primary commitments include:

• Initial meetings to discuss the project scope and wall location (1-2 hours)

• Review and approval of the mural design concepts (typically 1-2 review rounds)

• A designated contact person available by email/phone throughout the 3-4 month process

• Someone to welcome our team on the day of the mural painting

• The wall space itself

CompassPoint Mentorship handles all other aspects of the project, including artist coordination, student recruitment and supervision, materials, and project management.

Q: How long does the entire mural process take?

A: The typical timeline from initial partnership agreement to completed mural is 3-4 months. This includes the design development phase, approval process, and the actual painting, which usually takes 1-2 days depending on the mural's size and complexity.

Q: Who owns the mural once it's completed?

A: While the physical mural becomes part of your property, the artist retains the intellectual property rights to the design. CompassPoint Mentorship typically requests permission to use images of the completed mural for promotional and educational purposes. We can discuss specific terms regarding maintenance, potential removal, or alterations as part of our partnership agreement.