Boulder Options CEO Daryl Thompson presents youth mentoring program success to committee

The Minnesota Senate's Committee on Jobs and Economic Development recently highlighted the impactful work of Boulder Options, a mentoring program dedicated to supporting youth in the community. During the meeting, Daryl Thompson, the organization's president and CEO, shared compelling statistics demonstrating the program's success in fostering personal growth and career readiness among participants.

Boulder Options serves approximately 240 youth annually, providing one-on-one mentoring relationships that have proven effective in bridging skills gaps and enhancing resilience. The program's "I Believe, I Achieve" initiative has shown remarkable results, with 90% of participants completing the first year eligible for alumni programming that includes leadership development and career coaching. Notably, 71% of youth reported improved computer skills, and 86% felt confident in their ability to create resumes and prepare for interviews.

Thompson emphasized the program's role in not only empowering youth but also in saving taxpayer dollars by steering young people away from potential lives of crime, which can cost the state between $1.7 and $2.3 million per individual. Thanks to recent funding, Boulder Options has doubled its participation and eliminated its waiting list, allowing more youth to benefit from its services.

Zora McLaurin, a 16-year-old participant, shared her personal journey with Boulder Options, expressing gratitude for the opportunities she has gained through the program. Her testimony underscored the positive impact of mentorship on her aspirations to attend university and pursue a career in business.

Committee members praised Boulder Options for its long-standing commitment to the Rochester community and expressed support for continued funding to expand its reach. The discussions highlighted the importance of mentorship programs in shaping the future of Minnesota's youth and addressing broader community goals related to education and workforce development.

As the committee concluded its session, the focus remained on finding ways to sustain and enhance such initiatives, ensuring that more young people can access the resources they need to succeed.