Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Keyes.
Hi Rebecca, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 1993, something extraordinary began to take shape. Bill Steele, then Executive Director of the Minneapolis Jaycees Charitable Foundation, was driven by a vision to do more than just support youth programs financially. He wanted to build something that could make a lasting difference. Alongside colleague Paul Ramsour, he envisioned a new kind of mentoring program, one grounded in movement, connection, and accountability. Inspired by a similar initiative in Boulder, Colorado, they launched “Bolder Options” in Minneapolis, pairing young people with mentors and lacing their journey with goal-setting, physical activity, and one powerful promise: You don’t have to face your challenges alone. From the start, mentoring was the heart of it all, offering a consistent, caring adult presence capable of helping youth rewrite the story they believe about themselves.
Not long after, former NFL running back Darrell Thompson crossed paths with the program and felt something shift within him. What began as off-season volunteering soon became his life’s calling. After retiring from football, Darrell joined the team part-time, then stepped in as Bolder Options’ first full-time staff member. In 1998, the organization became its own nonprofit, and Darrell took the helm as Executive Director, determined to grow the seed of an idea into something enduring.
With community support, Bolder Options Youth Mentoring, which started as a short-term running challenge, blossomed into a year-long journey rooted in wellness and the transformational power of mentorship. We now serve the Twin Cities area and Rochester area. Over thirty years later, Bolder Options continues to guide young people, helping them build confidence, discover their strengths, and realize that their future is something they have the power to shape.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s certainly been a journey with its fair share of challenges, but we’ve been fortunate to have steadfast supporters along the way. Our donors and board members have truly been a wind at our back, offering guidance and support through difficult times. Their expertise, generosity, and dedication have helped us navigate the tough moments, ensuring that we continue to provide meaningful opportunities for youth in our community.
But perhaps the most vital part of our story is our volunteers. Our mentors are the heart and soul of Bolder Options. They are the ones who see the need in our communities and step forward with unwavering commitment, offering their time, care, and attention to the youth who need it most. Through their dedication, they not only change the lives of the young people they mentor but also help build a stronger, more connected community. They make all the difference, and we’re endlessly grateful for their selflessness and passion.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Bolder Options, we are proud to offer an intensive mentoring program that stands out because of the deep, lasting connections we create between mentors and mentees. Our program is designed to foster strong relationships, with mentors and mentees meeting for 2-4 hours each week, giving them the time and space to truly bond. This consistent, dedicated engagement is what allows us to make such a lasting impact.
Our staff works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that both mentors and youth have the best possible experience. From thoughtful matching to ongoing check-ins, training, and planning engaging weekly activities, we provide the structure and support necessary for meaningful connections to flourish. This commitment does not stop after one year, most of our mentor-mentee pairs continue their relationships long after their official program year ends.
What truly sets us apart is the community we create. Both mentors and mentees become a part of the Bolder Options family, which provides a sense of belonging that extends beyond just the mentoring relationship. Mentors find camaraderie and lifelong friendships with fellow volunteers, and many have built close, lasting connections through their time with us. This network of support makes Bolder Options a special place where everyone is part of something greater than themselves.
We are especially proud of our vibrant Alumni Program, which continues to support youth after their first year of mentoring. Through the program, youth gain valuable life skills, including money management, career planning, and higher education navigation. We also offer adventure-based learning experiences, like our BWCA trip and camping and hiking excursions, ensuring that the growth and fun continue long after the initial mentoring year. At Bolder Options, the relationships formed and the community built are what truly set us apart and make our program unique.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, we are committed to continuing our work and providing vital services to the youth in our community. The need has never been greater, and we strive to remain a welcoming space where people can come together, be themselves, and feel supported by the community. Mentoring offers a unique opportunity for cross-generational relationships that strengthen our community, allowing us to learn from one another’s experiences. We need each other, and we are excited to keep building these connections for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bolderoptions.org
- Instagram: bolderoptionstwincities
- Facebook: Bolder Options
- LinkedIn: Bolder Options
- Youtube: @bolderoptions894 @bolderoptions894-sf3gp
