Our Mission is to make a profound, positive difference in the lives of young people whose circumstances put them at risk of falling far short of their true potential.
Our Guiding Principles:
We broaden our members’ horizons by making them aware of opportunities that exist outside of their immediate environment, and the full range of goals that they can set for themselves.
We mentor our members to develop road maps through unfamiliar territory, so they can work toward their personal career and development objectives.
We engage our members in activities that help them develop discipline, team skills, self-confidence, self-respect and respect for others.
All of our programs are built around structured activities. We aren’t a recreational clubhouse. Members come to the BTS Community Center to have a good time, but learning and personal development are our first priorities.
We have zero tolerance for inappropriate behavior. A member who behaves disrespectfully or ‘acts out’ will be required to leave the Center for the day.
We continuously emphasize the fundamental importance of education for opening doors to greater opportunities.
We educate members and their families about the resources that are available to help meet their needs.
We network with other community based organizations to meet the full range of needs faced by our members and their families.
We participate in events and activities that benefit those who need help anywhere in the city of Meriden.
Meet the BTS Team
Larry Pelletier Executive Director
Larry Pelletier was a student at Wilcox Technical High School when he started boxing at the original Silver City Boxing Club. The club eventually became dormant until 1993, when Larry and his own trainer, Art Smith, brought it back to life. Boxing was initially the only program offered. Under Larry’s leadership, the center’s program menu has expanded, but the goals have remained the same: Keep kids off the street and help them build discipline, self-confidence and respect for others.
Kevin Robinson Program Director
Kevin brings over 20 years of experience working with youth in nonprofit organizations at the administrative level. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with underprivileged youth, underserved families, and families experiencing homelessness. Kevin is deeply passionate about empowering youth, believing that providing at-risk young people with the right tools and support fosters resilience and empowers them to make positive choices.
As a certified life coach, Kevin’s mission is to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. His guiding mantra, “Onward and Upward!” reflects his unwavering commitment to helping youth thrive and reach their full potential.
Leroy Derricott Certified USA Boxing Assistant
Leroy is a former MMA fighter and now certified USA Boxing trainer. He grew up in Meriden and went to college where he earned my bachelor’s degree in business administration. After college he traveled home to give back. He has worked in the Meriden Public School System, during that time, he started his MMA journey. He has two children and now works at a tremendous place called BTS!
He is very fournet to work with Dennis and Larry as they mentor him in learning the sweet science of boxing. He has several years of experience in sport and that helps him to learn faster.
Leroy is a former MMA fighter and now certified USA Boxing trainer. He grew up in Meriden and went to college where he earned my bachelor’s degree in business administration. After college he traveled home to give back. He has worked in the Meriden Public School System, during that time, he started his MMA journey. He has two children and now works at a tremendous place called BTS!
Leroy is very fournet to work with Dennis and Larry as they mentor him in learning the sweet science of boxing. He has several years of experience in sport and that helps him to learn faster.
Ethan Dupont Audio Production & Performing Arts Director
Ethan “Dupey” Dupont is a multi-faceted audio engineer and audio educator hailing from Naugatuck, Connecticut. He serves as the Audio Production & Performing Arts Director for Beat the Street Community Center while working full-time as an Audio/Visual Systems Engineer at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT. Ethan works as a freelance Audio Engineer working with local/touring bands and artists, as well as pageantry arts ensembles, all throughout New England. He works as the sole Audio Engineer for local pop artist, Ethan Fiske, as well as being the bass player for “Ethan Fiske and The Big Love Band”.
Adrianna Nevarez Dance Instructor
Adrianna Nevarez has over a decade of dance experience ranging from performing to choreographing and coaching. A Meriden native, Her style ranges from hip-hop, drill, and Reggaeton. Adrianna brings a diverse mix of dance and music skill and passion along with a love of teaching and understanding of youth and mentoring. She looks forward to working with the Meriden youth and community
Get Involved…
Looking to get involved in the community and help us toward our mission
