Couple's program gives youth a fighting chance

NEW BRUNSWICK — Boxing gym owners Dionne Roberts-Thompson and her husband, John (JT) Thompson want to help young people in more ways than one with their Pillars of Success Program. The couple have owned Brunswick Boxing Stars for about 11 years.

“We have been able to provide youth seminars, Christmas parties, donation of equipment and membership assistance,” Dionne said.

“We have also shared other community agencies programming.”

In March, the Thompsons launched their Pillars of Success 10-week program, which was made possible when Catholic Charities, Unity Square, and its staff opened the doors to Brunswick Boxing Stars and enabled them to share their newest program with the community.

For that, the Thompsons say they are “very grateful.”

Participants in Pillars of Success meet on Wednesdays at the Unity Square building. Once everyone is signed in, they have snacks and then the week’s program begins. Guest speakers address a number of topics, including internships, post-high school decision-making, and resume writing.

The Thompsons have received a very positive response to Pillars of Success and are very excited to continue the program throughout the summer. They plan to incorporate more seminars and services for both youth and adults from all the surrounding areas in Middlesex County.

At Brunswick Boxing Stars, a family-oriented gym, the Thompsons have gotten to know their clients very well. They said their Pillars of Success program was established to provide the social support individuals in the community need.

“Brunswick Boxing Stars has always been a place for our children and young adults to come and feel safe, loved, supported and part of a family while learning the art of boxing,” Dionne said.

The Thompsons have youth come to their gym who have been bullied, are autistic or have learning difficulties, and children that are overweight or have physical difficulties and need discipline and exercise.

Brunswick Boxing Stars was able to stay open during the COVID-19 or coronavirus pandemic at their 100 Jersey Ave. location in New Brunswick. Unfortunately for the Thompsons, that entire block is being demolished for redevelopment. The owners of the boxing gym said it was stressful looking for a new location, but they have found a new home in North Brunswick in the same strip mall as Bowlero. The new location is scheduled to open at a date to be determined.

The Thompsons are grateful they can continue their goal to have a positive impact on lives through their gym. They have many plans for both Brunswick Boxing Stars and Pillars of Success as they have had such a positive response and see a need in the community and a bright future filled with opportunities for all.

For more information about Pillars of Success or Brunswick Boxing Stars, visit their Facebook or Instagram pages, or stop by their new location in North Brunswick.

Workman is the communications specialist in the Office of Communications and Public Relations