BTS Philadelphia Hosts Most Successful Annual Benefit to Date

On Thursday January 28^th, Beat the Streets Philadelphia (BTSP) hosted its’ 5^th Annual Benefit in the heart of New York City’s meatpacking district. Hundreds of supporters gathered at STK-Downtown to bid on items at our silent auction, participate in card games and to help raise meaningful support aimed at altering the life trajectory of young student-athletes in our programs. Throughout the evening, BTSP donors bid on a number of highly-coveted sports memorabilia items and experiences that were generously provided by many of our donors.  With close to 60 prizes won, attendees outbid each other throughout the evening in hopes of securing the items.  The guests were also entertained with live music on the new rooftop lounge by Bryen O'Boyle adding to the overall excitement of the event.  As a former wrestler and teacher, Bryen's involvement plays a big role in making the event so enjoyable for our guests. In addition to participation in the silent auction, guests also had an opportunity to compete in the poker tournament taking place on the third floor.  This year, close to 175 guests competed in the 2016 BTSP Poker Tournament and many of the guests brought a ton of energy to the game.  Our special guest, FOX Sports field reporter and former NFL defensive tackle Tony Siragusa, battled throughout the evening and ultimately came away with the grand prize which included an official Beat the Streets Championship Belt and a beautiful Breitling watch donated by Govberg Jewelers. BTS Chairman Clinton Matter took time during the tournament to directly thank the guests for their support and to highlight some of the accomplishments achieved over the previous year and some of the individuals that have made those possible.  Mr. Matter was clear in his message that every decision made by the BTSP leadership is intended to Alter the Life Trajectory of our participants and everything we do is made possible by the generous support of our donors. Following his remarks, Mr. Matter  introduced the aforementioned Tony Siragusa, who was gracious enough to again rally support for BTSP and our effort to use wrestling and mentoring to alter the life trajectory of our participants.  He promoted several items included in our Silent Auction and helped raise meaningful support as a result of this effort. This was our most successful Annual Benefit to date and we are thankful for everyone that supported the event in a variety of ways. The support of our donors has been nothing short of amazing and ultimately has a direct impact on all of the youth in our programs.  Through the continued expansion of our mentoring center and access to the sport of wrestling throughout the Philadelphia region, Beat the Streets Philadelphia will continue to strive to fulfill our mission of "Altering the Life Trajectory" of youth in our programs.