Our story, our mission, and the community we're building together.
El Batey was founded in 2017 in Buffalo, NY — born from the recognition that the Puerto Rican community needed a space where culture wasn't just remembered, but actively lived.
The name "El Batey" is rooted in tradition: in Puerto Rico, the batey was the central gathering ground of Taíno villages — the place where community came together for ceremony, music, and celebration. We carry that spirit forward.
What started as a grassroots effort to offer Bomba and Plena classes has grown into a vibrant nonprofit serving every age — from Baby Bomba toddlers to teens leading the drum circle — all grounded in the belief that when our community knows itself, it can transform itself.
Today, El Batey is a proud partner of Say Yes Buffalo and a cornerstone of the Puerto Rican community in Western New York.
Everything we do flows from these five foundations.
The dedicated leaders who make El Batey possible.
Visionary leader committed to building a thriving Puerto Rican community in Buffalo. Placeholder — add name & bio.
Oversees all Bomba & Plena programs, from Baby Bomba through Bembé Buleo and Bembé Baile. Deep roots in Puerto Rican cultural arts. Placeholder — add name & bio.
Master of Bomba and Plena tradition. Brings ancestral knowledge to every class. Placeholder — add name & bio.
Community leader providing governance and strategic guidance to the organization. Placeholder — add name & bio.
Interested in joining our board or leadership team? Get in touch.
El Batey is a proud partner of Say Yes Buffalo, an organization committed to ensuring every student in Buffalo can access higher education and career opportunities.
Through this partnership and others, we amplify our reach — connecting families to resources, scholarships, and wraparound services that strengthen the whole community.
We are always looking to build new partnerships that align with our mission. If your organization shares our values, we'd love to connect.
Partner With UsMoments from our community — add your photos here.
Key milestones since our founding.
Grassroots launch of Bomba & Plena classes in Buffalo, NY. Community gathers around cultural arts for the first time.
El Batey Inc. receives federal nonprofit status, enabling formal fundraising and expanded programming.
Teen drum and dance classes begin, expanding Bomba instruction beyond Chiqui Bomba to ages 11–17.
Formal partnership established with Say Yes Buffalo, connecting El Batey families to expanded educational resources.
A parent-and-child program begins for ages 2–4, bringing rhythm and movement to our youngest community members.
El Batey continues to expand programming, partnerships, and community impact across Western New York.