Bolder Options Expansion and Replication

The Bolder Options Mentoring and Intervention Program will address the increasing number of at-risk youth in St. Paul by expanding its current program to serve participants directly in their neighborhoods. Ninety percent of all truant youth in St. Paul reside in the Ames Lake Community and 55104 and 55117 areas of St. Paul. Over 85% of the violent crime in St. Paul occurs in these three areas, and the areas are predominantly low income and high-crime. Funds from OJJDP will be used to match an additional 40 youth and mentors annually in St. Paul. The addition of a satellite site will allow Bolder Options to serve youth directly in their neighborhoods, providing them with a safe place to receive the services they need. The program will be more accessible to its recipients and more reflective of their needs and their community. NCA/NCF