Jose Henriquez is a tight-bodied point guard who grew up playing basketball on the dangerous streets of Camden City. He stands at 5’6” and weighs 160 pounds and is 18 years old. Just 2 years ago, he was 120 pounds. An intense fitness program he participates in at local workout facility Steve’s Club allowed him to gain 40 pounds of muscle, speed and agility on the basketball court. But more importantly—Steve’s Club has helped Jose to Beat the Streets. Steve's Club is a non-profit organization giving young people from Camden the training, mentoring and coaching they need to be successful on the athletic field and in life.

“We are so grateful for CrossFit’s support,” said Steve Liberati, Executive Director and personal trainer at Steve’s Club, who services nearly 50 kids from Camden weekly. “Our mission is to provide a place for these kids to get away from it all. We provide fitness that is fun, challenging and highly effective.”

Jose sees a difference in his game—both on and off the court. “My coach is really happy with my progress,” he said. “I run faster, I jump higher and I’m a better athlete and a stronger person. I have always loved working out, but this place is different. Steve’s Club is paradise to kids like me.”

The paradise is three years young. The brainchild of Steve, an elite athlete, nutrition expert and certified personal trainer, the Club is a safe haven in Camden—often cited as the most dangerous city in the country. A former exterminator with his father’s pest control business, Steve saw first-hand the perils facing these kids as he serviced homes in Camden. He began inviting some of the children he met on the streets to train with him outside at Cooper River Park.

Today, Steve’s Club has a warehouse-like facility overlooking Cooper River Park. Steve has a van he rolls around Camden in collecting his athletes, purchased from Holman Automotive with funds raised by United Way Jaws Youth Fund and monthly donations from some generous CrossFit affiliates. Others hop a ride or walk to his facility. Most train 5-6 days a week.

“Steve is like an uncle to me,” Jose said. “He pulls us aside from time to time, making sure we are doing the right thing. I’m not scared to be out there on the streets, but it’s not worth it to risk my life. I have too much going for me.” Dreaming of owning his own business in collision repair, Jose recently graduated from Camden County Vocational School. He’s committed to maintaining a high level of fitness and inspiring his peers.

Rick Gonzalez, 18, is a classmate and good buddy of Jose’s. One hot day last July, they were hanging out, and Rick expressed interest in losing weight. Jose seized the opportunity and brought Rick to Steve’s Club that afternoon.

“I never worked out a day in my life,” said Rick, a self-proclaimed television and snacking junkie. “But Steve’s Club changed who I am inside. I am an athlete now. There is nothing on the streets but shooting and ganging, and that was never for me, so I stayed home on the couch and ate. I was overweight and unhealthy.” Since joining Steve’s Club, Rick has lost 40 pounds and 5 inches. He would like to lose another 30 before the end of the year. He trains 6 days a week and is following a diet plan laid out by Steve.

“I feel better about myself,” said Rick. “I’m well on my way to being in shape. It’s much more mental than physical. I encourage people to support United Way, because they are helping Steve change lives.”

“My kids need a chance for self-improvement and empowerment,” said Steve. “They need an escape path from the prison of everyday life and a support network to share ideas and experiences. Our Club is for those kids who want more than the streets.”

Jose gained 40 pounds, and Rick lost 40 pounds. Two very different goals, but their desire for “more” is the much the same. Thanks to Steve’s Club and their personal determination—they are well on their way to beating the streets.