A Legacy of Courage from a small group in Dorchester to a national model for youth advocacy. The Breath of Life Dorchester (BOLD) Teens movement began in 1997 with just four motivated individuals personally impacted by tobacco-related illnesses. What started as a focused effort to protect families from tobacco use and exposure blossomed into a comprehensive social and environmental justice powerhouse. Through tireless advocacy, including landmark victories against industry giants and the passing of critical public health legislation, BOLD Teens has redefined what youth leadership looks like in the 21st century.

Reverend Dr. Bill Loesch, a dedicated Dorchester community leader and activist, played an instrumental role in the formation of BOLD Teens. With a deep background in civil rights, social justice, and pastoral care, Rev. Loesch believed fiercely in the power of grassroots, youth-led organizing. Rather than speaking on behalf of the youth, he dedicated himself to providing them with the necessary tools, platforms, and education they needed to speak for themselves. Under his mentorship, the BOLD Teens learned vital community organizing tactics, public speaking skills, and legislative advocacy. BOLD provides a safe and supportive space for young people to tackle systemic inequalities in their own backyards—ranging from environmental racism to public health disparities. By treating youth as equal partners in the fight for justice, BOLD helps cultivate a generation of confident, capable leaders who continue to shape and inspire communities nationwide. Rev. Loesch’s legacy lives on through his daughter Cynthia Loesch-Johnson. As one of the founding youth of BOLD Teens, formally Teens Against Tobacco, she developed and championed BOLD Teens campaigns as a youth advocate and BOLD Teens coordinator. She presently serves as the advisor for the BOLD Teens.