Mission Statement and Vision

YALD is a sports-based youth development non-profit committed to providing underserved young people with the skills and confidence they need to achieve their dreams and become a positive force for change in their communities. 

At YALD we believe that physical activity is key to the health and development of our youth, contributing to their physical, social, and emotional well-being. Using team sports as an entry point for holistic youth development, YALD engages young people ages eight to 17 in a range of activities including life skills development, nutrition education, academic support, and community service. Our vision is to provide young people from underserved communities with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed in school and on the field, and to become healthy, well-rounded individuals who can effect positive change for their communities.

At YALD, we are a sports-based non-profit organization dedicated to empowering underserved young people in their journey to achieve their dreams and become positive forces for change in their communities. Founded by Carlos Castellanos in 2011 as a start-up flag football league in Washington Heights, YALD has evolved into a holistic youth development program. Our mission is to provide mentorship, supplementary education, and encouragement to help youth succeed in all aspects of their lives.

Using sports as an entry point, YALD engages participants in a wide range of life skills topics, including leadership, fitness, health, community, and career readiness. We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals, and our program not only focuses on teaching sports fundamentals but also provides guidance on health and nutrition, emotional well-being, responsible decision-making, and building healthy relationships. Through mentorship, we support academic achievement and help participants strike a balance between sports and school.

We firmly believe that all young people have the ability to effect positive change in their communities. To instill this value, community service is a core component of our program. By participating in community service projects, our youth not only learn the importance of giving back but also discover their unique abilities and contributions to making the world a better place.

Since 2011, YALD has served over 500 underserved young people in New York City through our sports and youth development programming, with our participant numbers growing each year. We are proud of our high retention rates, as over 90% of YALD participants remain engaged in the program for two or more years. Moreover, more than 90% of our alumni pursue continuing education after high school, showcasing the long-term impact of our support.

To further our mission and impact, we collaborate with various organizations that share our passion for youth empowerment and community development. Together, we deliver comprehensive programs to support the holistic growth and well-being of young individuals in our communities. We encourage individuals to join us in promoting health, fitness, and personal empowerment. By embracing the values of YALD, we can make a significant impact on the lives of young people in our communities. Let's come together and create a brighter future for all.