When Jimena was referred to Bolder Options at age 12, she wasn’t attending her regular school. Lots of things had become overwhelming, and she spent most of her time at home — quiet, anxious, and disconnected from peers. She didn’t know what she needed, exactly. She just knew something had to change. When she heard about Bolder Options, the idea of structured activities, supportive adults, and a chance to meet other youth felt promising. “I wouldn’t leave the house a lot,” sh

When Mandee first heard about Bolder Options nearly a decade ago through her trauma-informed preschool workplace, she had no idea how deeply it would shape her family’s life. As a single mother of five, she was always searching for ways to give her children one-on-one time, support, and positive influences.  “As a single parent, as much as you want to give your kids one-on-one time, you’re not giving them very much,” Mandee said. “It was great to have one person who could be

In September 1995, the Pioneer Press ran a story about a brand-new mentoring program in the Twin Cities called Bolder Options. We revisit that impact 30 years later.