JUMP sites frequently use mentors who are law enforcement officers, fire department personnel, college students, senior citizens, business people, and government employees. Some JUMP projects emphasize tutoring and academics, while others focus on vocational counseling and job skills. Young people participating in the JUMP projects are usually ages 5 though 17, first grade through high school. JUMP works to improve academic performance, reduce school drop-out rates, and prevent delinquent behavior. JUMP programs are usually operated by a variety of government and nonprofit organizations, and all sites are strongly encouraged to coordinate their activities with local schools.
All programs undergo a standardized evaluation.