Meet three of our newest Rochester mentors and hear, in their own words, why they chose to get involved and what they’re experiencing so far.

“What does it actually take to be a mentor?” The honest answer? More than people think. Mentoring isn’t just hanging out or having fun, though there’s plenty of that. It’s showing up consistently. It’s sticking with a young person even when they’re quiet, distracted, or pushing you away a little. It’s being someone they can count on, week after week. It takes patience. Flexibility. A sense of humor helps. So does the ability to try again next week when things don’t go as plan

When Erick first met Angel through Bolder Options Youth Mentoring Program, he approached the experience with an open mind and no expectations. What he found was a young person who immediately stood out for his outgoing nature and maturity. From their very first meeting, their connection felt natural and easy. Angel was open, engaged, and ready to build a relationship, and Erick quickly recognized the potential for something meaningful to grow between them. Their bond was stre

"He soaked it up like a sponge," Tom said. "He was excited, asked great questions, and really listened."

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

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.

When Derek moved to Minneapolis a few years ago, he didn’t know many people in the city. He had just retired from a high-travel corporate...

Thank you Julie Pinomaki for your your time and thoughtful interviews!

"Whether it's volunteering, mentoring, taking on a challenge, or just being more present, it all matters. It all counts as being bold."

The I Achieve program directly addresses this need by connecting youth with mentors and professionals.

“I’m not a replacement dad,” Kirk says. “I want to be someone Jace is comfortable communicating with, to give him experiences he hasn’t had

Brandon Wurzinger had long been interested in doing some type of youth mentoring, but he hadn’t found the right opportunity. That is,...

I'm Charles Kelley. I am from the Milwaukee area, and I'm about a year out of school, transitioning into adulting life. I moved to...

Join us for an inspiring story of growth and connection in mentoring that comes to life at our Tailgate event!

A shared enthusiasm for Puerto Rican pool (table) games isn’t what initially drew David and Brian together; that was a bonus activity...

The relationship between a mentor and a mentee is powerful. I recently chatted with Angel and Deb, who are part of our program at Bolder...

I first learned about the Bolder Options program through my mentor, April Riordan, who mentioned to me that I would be a great fit for...

Teah, now 17, is a junior in high school, graduated from Bolder Options four years ago, and remains well-connected with her mentor...

Mentoring is a solution to combat loneliness in youth and adults. Bolder Options provides a nurturing environment for volunteers and the...

Mentorship has the power to change lives, both for the mentor and the mentee. In this video, mentors from the Bolder Options Youth...