.svg)
Inclusive arts-based nonprofit in Rockville Centre, NY providing enrichment programs, job training, and community services for teens and young adults of all abilities.
BackYard Players & Friends
.svg)
About
BackYard Players & Friends
BackYard Players & Friends is an inclusive, arts-based nonprofit organization founded in 2015 in Rockville Centre, NY, serving teens and young adults of all abilities age 14 and older. Co-founded by Ellen White, Ryan Delaney, and Cristine Daly, the organization provides transformative programs including theater, art, music, yoga, dance, cooking, and fitness classes designed to help participants develop physically, emotionally, and socially. Operating from The Backyard, their inclusive community space on North Long Beach Road in Rockville Centre, BYP has served over 200 participants through more than 20 course offerings. The organization also operates the Front Porch Market, showcasing work by neurodiverse entrepreneurs, and Love, Nana, a community service project supporting families in need. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, BYP partners with OPWDD and local fiscal intermediaries to make programs accessible throughout Nassau County.
BackYard Players & Friends
Community Outreach and Job Training
Gain meaningful work experience and give back to the community through Love, Nana baby bundle assembly, Front Porch Market retail training, and Employment Connections job readiness programs serving Long Island and beyond. Love, Nana participants wash, fold, and package gently used baby clothes for families in need at hospitals and social service agencies across New York and New Jersey. Front Porch Market provides hands-on retail experience where neurodiverse entrepreneurs learn customer service, marketing, and commerce skills while selling handmade crafts.
.svg)
.png){kind=icon}
Life Skills and Culinary Programs
Build independence and practical skills through cooking classes, healthy eating instruction, and game-based learning programs at The Backyard in Rockville Centre. Kitchen programs teach cooking and baking skills, food safety, and nutrition awareness in BYP's dedicated kitchen classroom. Healthy Eats classes integrate food and nutrition principles to build confidence in making healthy choices. Game Time develops creativity, planning, and teamwork through game design and friendly competition.
Health and Wellness Programs
Improve physical and mental well-being through adaptive yoga, Zumba, Pound Fitness, and Dance Fitness classes offered at the Rockville Centre Recreation Center. These programs are designed for all fitness levels and abilities, combining movement with music to make exercise enjoyable and accessible. Yoga classes promote flexibility, strength, and inner peace through adapted postures and breathing techniques. Fitness programs boost cardiovascular health, coordination, and social connection in an inclusive, supportive atmosphere.
Visual Arts and Creative Classes
Develop artistic skills and creative thinking through hands-on art classes, Cricut crafting workshops, and smartphone photography instruction in Rockville Centre, NY. Led by experienced instructors, these programs explore art elements, techniques, and art history while building confidence and providing a sense of accomplishment. Photography classes teach composition and image-sharing skills through photo walks. Maker's Studio sessions bring local artists to teach specialized crafts including floral arrangements, soap making, and candle creation.
Performing Arts Programs
Explore your creative potential through theater, music, and dance programs designed for participants of all abilities in Rockville Centre. Theater classes led by instructors feature improvisation, sketch comedy, song, and dance to build confidence and teamwork. Music programs help participants learn instruments and techniques in a supportive environment. These programs foster self-expression, social skills, and lasting friendships while preparing participants for performances at venues including Molloy University's Hays Theatre.
Quick Reference Guide
Pricing Information
What to Expect: Common Scenarios
Location(s)
Frequently Asked Questions
.png){kind=icon}
Featured reviews
.svg)
It's a great community event, because when people think of the parade, they think of that actual day and everything that goes on in town. This is a real family event. You can see this from the young people to older people, so that's what makes it so special.
Front Porch Market is just another example of the positive work being done by the Backyard Players and Friends here in the village. This new initiative showcases crafters and local artists in an inclusive retail space and craft workshop.
I think it's a great event. I live right around the block from here, so it's very easy for me to come down and take my kids to breakfast and support. It's good to see the younger generation out, too, and getting in the spirit.
This pancake breakfast is really a fun event. It's great for the community, and also for the kids who participate in Backyard Players here, and they're doing a great job being servers.
My son Ryan graduated from South Side High School and even though he is non-verbal, he has blossomed socially because of Centre Stage and the Backyard Players. The program and the new building give them a place to all gather safely, be more independent and socialize.
Gallery
.svg)
Monthly Activity
Get in touch with
Outdated marketing is expensive. Eyes AI is not.
You focus on what matters most — your customers, your projects, your day. EyesAI handles the marketing grind that takes you away from it.
%20(1).jpg)
%20(1).jpg)
