About our Organization
Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders’ (BCYL) affectionately known as Caribe, established in 2003 is celebrating our 20th Anniversary throughout the year!
Our Mission
To provide youth with sports, educational, and civic direction helping them build the character and self-esteem they need to reach their full potential and value in society.
History & Impact
Since our founding, BCYL has been a cornerstone of support for families in Bridgeport and beyond. From creating inclusive sports leagues to offering cutting-edge STEM education, we’ve reached thousands of children, fostering skills and confidence that last a lifetime. Our impact is measured in numbers and the success stories of young leaders we’ve helped shape
I am proud of how we have transformed Caribe from a baseball league to a grassroots youth development organization serving over 10,000 youth since we began this incredible journey.
Leadership Team
BCYL’s work is driven by a dedicated team of professionals
- John Torres, Executive Director, focuses on development and community engagement.
- Ruth Ortega, Finance and HR Coordinator, ensures smooth financial operations and supports the team’s human resource needs.
- Willie Cora, Sports Director, brings passion and expertise to youth athletics.
- Virginia Alicea, Registrar, leads family engagement, registrations, and financial aid processes
Meet the entire team here and learn about the heart beyond our mission
Partnerships
Collaboration is key to our success. BCYL partners with:
Wakeman Boy's and Girl's Club
Enhancing programs and resources for families
Kolbe Cathedral High School
Offering coed basketball camps
Peralta Design
Strengthening our branding and digital presence
Programs Overview
BCYL offers a variety of programs to engage youth and families, explore our divisions below:
Sports
- Soccer League: Year-round premier soccer instruction focusing on teamwork and discipline
- Basketball Camps: Coed half-day basketball camps in partnership with Kolbe Cathedral High School
- 10U Travel Baseball: Competitive opportunities for young athletes
- Golf Programs: Introducing youth to the fundamentals of golf in a supportive environment
Education
- Tech Explorers Program: Courses in VR, AI, coding, and esports for middle and high school students.
- In-School Tutoring: Academic support programs designed to help students excel.
- SUCCESS Program: Building skills and confidence in youth through leadership and mentoring initiatives
- YELT Program: Preparing young entrepreneurs to be future leaders
- Coding for Kids: Engaging middle schoolers in foundational coding skills.
Community Stories
Behind every program is a story of transformation. Meet participants like Natasha Rivers, who has made a lasting impact through our in-school tutoring initiatives, and families who have found hope and opportunity through BCYL’s efforts. Read inspiring stories here
FAQs
Have questions about BCYL? We’ve got answers:
How can I enroll my child in BCYL programs?
Are financial aid options available?
What are the eligibility requirements for participation?
Explore the sections above to see how BCYL is making a difference and how you can join our mission!
Giving is an easy way to make an impact.
Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders depends on the generosity of those who understand our mission and our children and families’ great capacity and potential. Our effort is to use contributions effectively and strategically to build tomorrow’s leaders. To that end, our families pay for the services and programs they receive, but you supplement the costs to make them affordable.
