FAQ

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM

This dog-centric program offers a comprehensive development experience that builds confidence, character, and personal growth while promoting essential traits and skills. These include individual responsibility, integrity, empathy, resilience, effective communication, leadership, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.

Who is the program for?

The program is designed for teens ages 13–18 who are ready to grow, step into leadership, and build confidence in themselves. Whether your teen is struggling with self-doubt or already high-achieving but looking for more purpose and direction, The BOLO Project meets them where they are and helps them level up.

What is the investment for the program?

Thanks to the generous support of The Larry and Helen Hoag Foundation, our summer program has been subsidized and registration is $699 (normally $1,497) and our one-day workshops are $299 (normally $499!) We also offer sibling discounts, payment plans and income-based fee support (limited availability).

Our goal is to make this experience accessible while maintaining the quality of the program.

What makes The BOLO Project different?

Most programs focus on fixing problems. We focus on building what’s possible.

We combine:

Leadership training
Mindset and neuroscience-based tools
Real-life application
The powerful bond between teens and dogs

This creates an environment where teens don’t just learn concepts—they experience real transformation.

What is the structure of the program?

We offer two primary ways to participate:

One-Day Workshops
A powerful introduction to the BOLO methodology and core concepts.

8-Week Program (Summer)
A deeper, more immersive experience that includes:

A kickoff weekend
Weekly sessions
Hands-on learning and real-life application

Where does the program take place?

Programs are currently held in Los Alamitos, California, with sessions hosted in safe, indoor and outdoor environments designed for hands-on learning and interaction with dogs.

What results can I expect for my teen?

Parents often notice:

Increased confidence and independence
Improved communication
Greater emotional awareness
More responsibility and initiative
Stronger sense of purpose

Life skills they will carry into school, relationships, and future careers.

What if my child can’t attend the two-day retreat?

Students need to participate in the two-day retreat, so we ask that you get on our waitlist for the upcoming Fall program.

What if my child misses a class?

We understand that things come up, and families take vacations. Missing a class is not a problem, but missing more than 2 would limit their full participation in the course and could impact the project portion.

Do you prorate the program fee based on attendance or offer refunds?

No, we do not. After the kickoff weekend, we’re unable to offer refunds. Each teen’s spot is reserved in advance, which means another student may have missed the chance to join. Plus, we’ve already invested in materials and planning just for your teen!

Does this program meet college admission requirements?

Yes. College admission boards are looking for involvement in multiple extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, and service hours. The BOLO Project checks all of those boxes.

Does my child receive college credit for this course?

Currently, they do not. However, we are in the process of getting the program accredited for college CEU’s.

Who facilitates the program?

Gila Kurtz, the founder and Executive Director, is the lead facilitator. She is a former high school teacher, serial entrepreneur, business strategist, and mentor for CEO founders. She designed this program to give teens a “leg up” on important traits and skills that lead to a successful life. Speakers and topic experts also participate throughout the program.

Why do I want to enroll my child in this program?

Have you ever said, “I wish I knew then what I know now”?

This program gives teenagers access to what we wish we knew then.

It builds character, confidence, and positive personal growth.

It develops traits of responsibility, empathy, integrity, and resilience.

It fosters financial literacy, leadership, communication, entrepreneurship/project management, and community service skills.

Is my child going to be training dogs?

No, but dogs are present at every session. We know that dogs change the way people see the world. Studies show that dogs reduce stress and anxiety which enhances the ability to learn. Plus, they are fun to have around!

Do we accept Charter Funds?

Yes! If we are not listed as a vendor, please reach out to us to start a partnership with your charter school.

What if my teen is shy or hesitant?

That’s completely okay, and very common.

The program is designed to gently meet teens where they are and help them grow at their own pace. The environment is supportive, engaging, and structured to build confidence step by step.

How do I sign my teen up?

You can register directly through our website by selecting the program that best fits your schedule.

One- Day Workshop: https://www.theboloproject.org/spring-workshops-2026

Summer Program: https://theboloproject.lovable.app/

Ready to Give Your Teen the Skills to Succeed?

Secure your 9th-12th grader’s spot in an upcoming session! Don’t miss the chance to give your teen a transformative year. Spaces are limited, and our unique program fills up fast. Enroll now to ensure your teen is set up for success in school, college admissions, and beyond.