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.

One opportunity within the Alumni Program is the I Believe Program is a paid training initiative that helps youth explore their strengths, interests, and dreams for the future. Corey took full advantage of this opportunity. Considering a career where he could work with his hands, Corey expressed an interest in fields like carpentry and welding. To help him explore those possibilities, the I Believe staff set Corey up with Tom, an experienced general contractor, for a job-shadowing experience tailored to Corey.

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.

“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.”

It was clear Corey was truly listening and taking Tom’s advice to heart. One of Tom’s key pieces of guidance during the day was to think ahead about choosing a career path that wouldn’t be as hard on the body over time. Corey picked up on this immediately, showing that he was absorbing not just what he saw, but the life experience Tom was sharing.

Tom, who has decades of experience in the construction world, 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.”

Throughout the day, Corey learned more than just 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 broader life lessons about professionalism, decision-making, and how to set himself up for success.

From the I Believe 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 was Corey’s favorite memories he said: 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”

Building Bold Futures

We know that relationships change lives and that includes the relationships youth form with caring adults like Tom even after their initial year of mentoring ends. Opportunities like the I Believe Program give youth a chance to dream bigger, explore their passions, and take concrete steps toward building the future they deserve.

Thanks to volunteers like Tom and ambitious, hardworking youth like Corey we can see a future where we can support each other, give back and create a stronger community.