Exploring BOLD New Paths

At Bolder Options, mentoring doesn't end after the first year, it's just the beginning. Our program starts with a year-long, one-on-one mentoring experience, where youth and their mentors build strong, trusting relationships. But Bolder Options continues to grow upon that trust with our Alumni Program. Through the Alumni Program, young people stay connected with Bolder Options and engage with new positive adult role models who help guide them through important life planning and milestones.

Tom & Corey at a job site.

One opportunity within the Alumni Program is the I Achieve Program, which includes a paid training initiative that helps youth learn and practice job skills in partnership with career coaches. Corey took full advantage of this opportunity. A graduate of the I Believe program, Corey knew he wanted to work with his hands and explore fields like carpentry and welding. Bolder Options staff set Corey up with Tom, an experienced general contractor, to be his career coach. They hit it off right away! After completing the I Achieve program, Tom invited his new pal to meet up in person for a job-shadowing day tailored to Corey's interests.

Learning the Trades: A Hands-On Introduction

On the day of his job shadow, Corey and Tom visited several active construction sites, including a stunning glass conservatory, a basement remodel, and a residential home. Corey got to see the different phases of construction firsthand, everything from framing to finishing work.

Tom, who has decades of experience in the construction field, emphasized the importance of planning for the long haul. “I told Corey that if he’s thinking about going into the trades, it’s important to pick something that's not too hard on your body long-term,” Tom shared. “Being an electrician or focusing on framing could give him a longer, healthier career.” Corey listened closely and took Tom’s advice to heart.

“Seeing the inside of the house and how everything is placed was really cool,” Corey said. “It made me realize how much work it takes and that being a framer might be a better fit for me because it’s not as hard on your body as other trades.”

Throughout the day, Corey learned life lessons and technical skills. He also picked up valuable insights into the realities of being a general contractor, the juggling act of site visits, phone calls, problem-solving, and keeping projects on track.

 "I didn't expect that he would have to do so much driving and coordinating between painters, plumbers, and electricians," Corey said. "It was cool to see how all of that works behind the scenes."

Beyond the Job Sites: Life Lessons and Lasting Impressions

While Corey’s main focus was to learn about careers in the trades, he also walked away with other broader life lessons about professionalism, decision-making, and how to set himself up for success.

From the I Believe & I Achieve program classes and his day with Tom, Corey learned the importance of presenting himself well through clear communication, a strong handshake, confident introductions, and professional behavior. 

"You have to present yourself in a certain way," Corey reflected, noting that good body language and professionalism are important.

Tom’s mentorship made a strong impression on Corey beyond the job skills he shared. Corey described Tom as “very friendly and social,” someone who “gets along with everybody” and makes people feel comfortable. “He teaches a lot,” Corey said. “He’s very helpful and answers any questions you have.”

Feeling welcomed and encouraged made a lasting impact on Corey, reinforcing not only his career interests but his confidence in building relationships with adults in professional spaces.

Tom was equally impressed with Corey’s eagerness to learn.

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

Tom encouraged Corey to stay in touch after their shadow day, offering himself as a continued resource and mentor.

And, Of Course, a Little Fun

The day wasn’t all work and no play. When asked what his favorite memory was, Corey said it was when Tom took him for a spin in his Redeye Hellcat Challenger, a 900-horsepower dream car for a young car enthusiast.

“It felt like I was in a spaceship!” Corey said.

For both Corey and Tom, the experience was more than just a day spent together;  it was a meaningful connection built around shared interests, hard work, and hope for the future.

“I probably got more out of it than he did,” Tom said. “It was just exciting to see that look in his face. That's a thing you can't buy.”

Tom also reflected that he used to volunteer quite a bit but got away from it as his busy work schedule took over. His time with Corey is inspiring him to find ways to fit more volunteering into his life again.

Building Bold Futures

We know that relationships change lives. Bolder Options starts with a strong 1:1 mentor but keeps introducing young people to more caring adults like Tom as they progress in our programs. Opportunities like the I Believe & I Achieve program give young people a space to dream bigger, explore their passions, and take concrete steps toward building the BOLD future they deserve.

Thank you, Tom, for sharing your time and expertise with Corey!