Empowering Youth Through Mentorship and Wellness
DT Cares is dedicated to transforming the lives of underserved middle and high school students in Hartford County, CT through holistic mentorship, life skills training, and culturally responsive wellness education.
DT Cares 6 Year Leadership Summit Recap
Watch highlights from our annual leadership summit that brings together students, mentors, and community leaders
The Challenge We're Addressing
It starts with hundreds of middle school students in Hartford County who 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 for middle and high school students who often lack the environment and resources to thrive. By providing early, structured interventions when the stakes are highest, we help students overcome academic, behavioral, and emotional challenges unlocking their potential to become high-achieving leaders in their communities.
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
- • Physical activity
- • Social and emotional intelligence
- • 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
Our Leadership Team
Dynamic and experienced leaders with strong ties to the Hartford County community
Upcoming Events
Join us for inspiring events that bring our community together and celebrate our shared commitment to youth empowerment
Eversource Hartford Marathon & Half Marathon
DT Cares is officially a Charity Partner for the 2025 Eversource Hartford Marathon & Half Marathon and we're inviting YOU to join the movement.
Whether you're lacing up your sneakers, cheering from the sidelines, or supporting from afar, this is your chance to make a real impact — and be who you needed growing up.
Ways You Can Get Involved:
- Join Team DT Cares: Run or walk in the 5K, half, or full marathon
- Volunteer With Us: Be part of the energy at our booth or support behind the scenes
- Donate or Sponsor a Runner: Help us empower more youth
- Share the Mission: Tell a friend, post on social, or bring your crew
Annual Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk
The DT Annual Breast Cancer Walk has been a cherished tradition in our community — bringing together survivors, families, and supporters each October to honor, educate, and empower.
In 2025, we're elevating this tradition into our first-ever 5K Run/Walk, blending the energy of a race with the purpose of our walk. This expanded event will raise funds, awareness, and provide real-time health resources to attendees.
Our Mission:
- Honor Survivors: Recognize local breast cancer warriors with public acknowledgment
- Raise Awareness: Provide high-impact education on early detection and prevention
- Promote Wellness: Encourage movement, holistic health, and community support
Expected attendance: 300+ community members
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"
The Times Of India Feature
"Three friends, one gym, and a mission to transform youth mentorship"
White House Partnership
Collaboration with Office of Public Engagement
Get Involved
Ready to make a difference? Contact us today to explore partnership, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities.