Everything You Need To Know About The Free Tailgate Event in Rochester, MN

Imagine being a kid and not having many friends.  For some of us, that was our reality growing up.  We know how hard the lunchroom is when no one wants to sit with you.

Bullying has been a hot topic and it should be - about 40% of kids reported being bullied on school property in 2023.  If you look at just cyberbullying, 54% of youth are saying this is a big problem at school.

And while we are now able to connect with more people at once thanks to technology, youth today are saying they are lonely and feeling isolated.  Having someone that they trust to talk to is nonexistent for many youth in our community.

Thankfully, organizations for youth in Southeast Minnesota are seeing kids that they work with thrive thanks to positive mentors in their lives.  And one organization, Bolder Options, wants to celebrate with you at their upcoming event called Tailgate.  Below is everything you need to know.

What is Bolder Options in Minnesota?

Bolder Options kicked off in 1993 after a community needs assessment showed a big gap in mentoring programs in the Twin Cities. Over the years, they’ve really broadened their horizons, bringing their unique mentorship style to new areas including St. Paul and Rochester.

By 2006, Bolder Options was named one of the top charities in the country.  Throughout all its growth, Bolder Options has been recognized as an Expert Partner in mentoring by Mentor Minnesota and the National Mentoring Partnership.

Bolder Options is an innovative organization focused on healthy youth development. The comprehensive mentoring program, wellness activities and leadership opportunities coordinate family, community, school and county resources in a united effort to support youth who are at-risk for dropping out of school or becoming involved in delinquent or unhealthy behaviors. Bolder Options engages youth and mentors in goal setting, physical activity, tutoring and community involvement to build confidence, maximize potential, and encourage healthy life skills.

- Bolder Options

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Fast forward to 2018, Bolder Options expanded its alumni program, which gave young people amazing opportunities for growth and learning through trips to places like the BWCA and Montana.

It isn't just the mentee that gains something from it...sometimes the experience is life-changing for the mentor as well.

Everything You Need To Know About Tailgate, a Free Event in Rochester, Minnesota to Support Bolder Options

• WHEN: July 12th, 2025
• TIME:  5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
• WHERE: Rochester International Event Center, 7333 Airport View Dr SW
• WHAT: Tailgate is Bolder Options' biggest fundraising event in Rochester!  Come and get an autograph from a renowned sports celebrity.  You'll also enjoy music, a spectacular silent auction, fun grab bags, exciting activities, and unforgettable interactions at this family-friendly event.
• COST: This FREE event is open to the public 🎉. There will be items that you can purchase at the event that will go to help raise funds for Bolder Options.
• RSVP TODAY:  The event is free to attend but to help with planning, please RSVP here.
• A FEW OF THE ATHLETES THAT WERE AT THE EVENT IN 2024:
  • Roo Yori
  • Ben Williams
  • Marcus Sherels
  • Darrell Thompson
  • Randall McDaniel
  • Rickey Young
  • Michael Restovich
  • Jim Petersen
  • Rickey Foggie

Do you have an event coming up in Southeast Minnesota?

If you have an event coming up or work for a nonprofit in Southeast Minnesota, I'd love to learn more! Send me a note at jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or on my Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio.

Every year, we help the community in a variety of ways from supporting local fundraisers, to running daily public service messages, to creating digital community campaigns and hosting events attended by thousands. Learn more how Townsquare Media Cares here.