In honor of Women’s History Month, The Boys’ Club of New York is proud to highlight the story of one of its own — Chief of Staff Yaritza Cortes — whose journey with BCNY is a powerful testament to resilience, community, and the lasting impact of belonging.
Finding a Home at BCNY
Yaritza’s connection to BCNY began in 1995 when she joined Smart Moves, a co-ed program at the Harriman Clubhouse near her childhood home. “I found a sense of belonging and safety within the program leaders,” Yaritza recalls. “It quickly became more than just a program — it became a family.” Growing up as the oldest of seven children in a single-parent household after moving from Puerto Rico, Yaritza found in BCNY a place that offered the support and encouragement she needed but often couldn’t access at home.
One moment that left a lasting imprint was a surprise birthday celebration organized by the staff and clubhouse members. “I remember walking into the clubhouse on my birthday and seeing the walls covered in handmade cards from the other kids. It was the first time I truly felt seen — where I didn’t have to compete for space or attention,” Yaritza recalls. “The Boys’ Club became a safe place — a second home.”
Growing Through Challenges
Over the next twelve years, Yaritza grew within BCNY, taking on multiple roles and embracing new opportunities. Despite facing personal challenges — including dropping out of high school to support her family — she credits BCNY, and especially the mentorship of leaders like José Vasquez, with helping her find a pathway back to education and success. With BCNY’s support, Yaritza earned her GED, pursued higher education, and eventually obtained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Through it all, Yaritza grew from a participant into a leader, eventually becoming the founding director of the Explorer Department at the Harriman Clubhouse.
A Journey Beyond BCNY
When BCNY’s CEO, Stephen Tosh, encouraged Yaritza to explore opportunities outside the organization to continue her growth, she embraced the challenge. For nearly 11 years, Yaritza served in the education sector, first as a dean, then as a principal — gaining new skills, broadening her leadership abilities, but always carrying BCNY’s mission in her heart.
Returning Home: A New Role, A Renewed Mission
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Yaritza felt called to return. “Our young people were going to need more than academic support — they needed holistic, emotional, and social development,” she says. In a full-circle moment, she re-joined BCNY as Chief of Staff, bringing her lived experience, leadership, and passion back home.
As Chief of Staff, Yaritza is focused on expanding BCNY’s reach to new communities, particularly in the Bronx and Brooklyn, and on developing and retaining talent committed to driving positive change for young people. “I want our staff to see this organization as a place where change is possible, where futures are built,” she explains.
Cherished Moments and Lasting Impact
One of her proudest moments in her current role has been seeing the culmination of BCNY’s summer programming. “The smiles on the boys’ faces at the end of camp remind me that while operations may never be perfect, relationships must be,” she says. “That’s BCNY’s secret sauce — the relationships we build are what make the difference.”
Yaritza’s return to BCNY is also deeply meaningful on a personal level. She recalls the day she was offered the role of Chief of Staff: “I put my head down and cried. It was the moment my inner child healed — the moment I realized I didn’t become a statistic. I made it, and now I get to do for others what others did for me.”
Staying Connected with Alumni
Throughout her journey, Yaritza has maintained close ties with BCNY alumni, many of whom watched her grow from a determined young girl to a powerful leader. “It’s been special to see that the impact of BCNY isn’t limited to boys alone. It shaped me, too,” she says.
Honoring the Role of Women at BCNY
Reflecting on Women’s History Month, Yaritza emphasizes the critical role women have always played at BCNY. “Women foster a nurturing, compassionate, and resilient community that shapes not only our boys but also the culture of BCNY itself,” she says. “We model resilience, we promote inclusivity, and we remind everyone of what truly matters.”
Full Circle
Today, Yaritza Cortes stands as a powerful example of BCNY’s mission in action — proof that when young people are seen, supported, and empowered, there are no limits to what they can achieve.