Invest in legacy. Empower the next generation.
Together, we're building Hartford's Youth Wellness & Leadership Hub, a space where mentorship, wellness, and purpose come together to change lives.
The Challenge We're Addressing
Hundreds of middle school students in Hartford County are chronically absent, academically behind, or facing behavioral challenges—putting them on a path toward long-term disengagement.
- • Only 24% proficient in reading
- • Only 16% proficient in math
- • Chronic absenteeism exceeds 30%
- • Resource constraints and budget cuts
Impact: Students falling behind academically are 3x more likely to drop out without intervention.
- • 10,000+ mental health visits since 2021
- • 157 schools lack critical health services
- • Limited access to mental health care
- • Increased demand for support services
Gap: 157 Connecticut schools lack onsite mental health services, leaving thousands of students without support.
- • High poverty rates in Hartford County
- • Unstable home environments
- • Safety concerns in neighborhoods
- • Economic hardships affecting families
Reality: Economic hardship and safety concerns create barriers to education, affecting student performance and well-being.
Our Solution
DT Cares delivers school-based mentorship and wellness programs designed specifically for middle school students facing academic, behavioral, and emotional challenges. We provide early, structured interventions when the stakes are highest.
Our Approach
DT Cares stands apart through our comprehensive, culturally responsive approach that addresses the whole student
- Nutrition education and healthy eating workshops
- Stress management and mindfulness training
- Fitness programs alongside leadership development
"Physical and mental well-being enhance leadership potential and academic success."
- Programs designed for relevance and relatability
- Mentors who share similar backgrounds and experiences
- Deep community connections and understanding
"Trust and understanding built through shared lived experiences."
- Financial literacy and money management
- Conflict resolution and communication skills
- Hands-on career exploration and internships
"Real-world skills for Hartford County career opportunities."
A Comprehensive Approach to Youth Development
By combining holistic wellness, cultural relevance, and practical life skills, we create lasting change that empowers students to succeed academically, emotionally, and socially.
Our Programs
Comprehensive mentorship and wellness programs designed to meet students where they are—mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
- • Gideon Welles Middle School
- • East Hartford Middle School
- • Sage Park Middle School
- • West Middle School
- • Windsor High School
- • Rockville High School
- • College application guidance
- • Athletic recruiting support
- • Life skills development
- • Mentor-athlete partnerships
- • Resilience building
- • Teamwork development
- • Leadership training
- • On and off-field success
- • Foundational leadership skills
- • Wellness education
- • Social development
- • Fun, engaging activities
- • Leadership skill development
- • Work ethic building
- • Community engagement
- • Professional experience
- • Academic support
- • Personal development
- • Structured mentorship
- • Life success preparation
Upcoming Events
Join us for inspiring events that bring our community together and celebrate our shared commitment to youth empowerment
Speed School
Be who you needed growing up. Join us every Saturday morning for Speed School, a dynamic program designed to develop athletic skills, build confidence, and foster community connections.
Our Speed School program provides youth with structured training sessions that focus on speed, agility, and athletic development while emphasizing the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Open to all skill levels.
Program Benefits:
- Professional athletic training and skill development
- Mentorship from experienced coaches
- Community building and peer support
- Character development and life skills
FREE HYROX Class
Experience the world of HYROX training! Join us for a FREE weekly class where fitness meets community. Bring a friend and discover what HYROX is all about.
HYROX is a global fitness racing competition that combines running with functional workout stations. Our free Saturday classes are designed for all fitness levels – come try it out with no commitment. Donations are encouraged to support our youth programs.
What to Expect:
- Full-body functional fitness workout
- Expert coaching and guidance
- Open to all fitness levels
- Community atmosphere and support
- Bring a friend – all are welcome!
Our Leadership Team
Dynamic and experienced leaders with strong ties to the Hartford County community
Hover to learn more
• Co-Owner of Dilligence Training
• Windsor native and Harvard Class of 2017, where he received his BA in Economics
• Starting defensive back for the Harvard Crimson, 3x Ivy League Champion and All-Ivy recipient
• Stanford Graduate School of Business Class of 2026 MBA Candidate
• Former Investment Banker at Credit Suisse
• Former growth equity investor at TPG's RISE Fund, the world's largest global impact fund with over $18bn AUM
• Vice President and one of the youngest members on Harvard Varsity Club Executive Board
Hover to learn more
• COO and Co-founder of Dilligence Training
• Received his Masters In Business Administration - Assumption University, class of 2019
• Lead Special Teams Coordinator for Windsor High School Football, #1 ranked team in Connecticut
• Board member on The 095 Junior Warriors Football and Cheer team
• Board member on the Exercise Science Board at Central Connecticut State University
• Life Coach/Mentor for SMART Recovery programs inside of various Connecticut Department of Correctional Facilities
• Class of 2022 - 100 Men of Color Member Award Winner
Hover to learn more
• CEO and Co-founder of Dilligence Training
• Received his Masters in Business Administration - American International College, class of 2018
• Lead mentor for GEAR UP CT East Hartford, a $25.8 million funded program by U.S Department of Education
• Currently serves as an adjunct Professor at Manchester Community College - teaching Functional Fitness
• Board member on the Exercise Science Board at Central Connecticut State University
• Health Lead for Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated 2024 Health Initiative
• Recognized in the class of 2019 - 100 Men of Color Member Award Winner
Our Impact & Recognition
Measurable results and community recognition for our transformative work
What Success Looks Like
Recognition
Connecticut in Color Feature
"Gym Owners Work to Mentor & Empower Community"
White House Partnership
Collaboration with Office of Public Engagement
Boys & Girls Club Partnership
Community Director endorsement
Help Us Reach Our Goal
We're seeking support to expand our reach and impact 1,000+ students! Your support will contribute to:
Get Involved
Ready to make a difference? Contact us to learn how you can support our mission.