Our Work
See the impact we're making in communities across Puerto Rico
Picking Up Where We Left Off
"Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, then you are wasting your time on Earth."
Our Team
Rob Johnson
Founder
For over six years, Puerto Rico has been my home, and it's where I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of sports, especially baseball, in bringing communities together. My journey here has been more than just living on this beautiful island; it's been about becoming part of its vibrant culture and resilient spirit. Seeing the impact of natural disasters on local communities, particularly on youth sports facilities, sparked a passion in me to make a difference. That's why I founded Pick Up Puerto Rico. It's my way of giving back to the island that has given me so much, combining my love for baseball with a mission to rebuild and revitalize communities. Through our work, we're not just restoring baseball fields; we're rekindling hope and providing safe spaces for the youth to grow, learn, and play. Every repaired field, every game played, and every smile on a child's face is a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of Puerto Rico.
Stephen Lucas
Founder
Baseball has been a cornerstone of my life since childhood, instilling in me not just a love for the game, but also valuable life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and community. When I first came to Puerto Rico and saw the state of many once-vibrant baseball fields, it struck a chord deep within me. These weren't just neglected sports facilities; they represented lost opportunities for youth development and community bonding. This realization fueled my commitment to Pick Up Puerto Rico. As a founder, I'm dedicated to revitalizing these fields, seeing them not just as places to play ball, but as catalysts for positive change in communities across the island. Every field we restore is a step towards nurturing the next generation of not just baseball players, but community leaders. It's about preserving the rich baseball heritage of Puerto Rico while paving the way for a brighter future.
Lya Morales
Executive Director
As the Executive Director of Pick Up Puerto Rico, I am deeply honored to lead an organization that's making such a profound impact on our island's communities. My journey with this initiative began with a simple belief: that sports, particularly baseball, have the power to transform lives and unite people. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I've seen firsthand how baseball is woven into the fabric of our culture, serving as a source of pride, joy, and opportunity. In my role, I'm committed to channeling this cultural significance into tangible, positive change. Every day, I work alongside our dedicated team and volunteers to not just rebuild baseball fields, but to revitalize entire communities. We're creating safe spaces for children to play, learn, and grow, while also fostering a sense of unity and resilience among residents. It's incredibly rewarding to see how our efforts are reigniting the passion for baseball in areas affected by natural disasters and economic challenges. Through Pick Up Puerto Rico, we're not just preserving a beloved sport; we're investing in the future of our youth and the strength of our communities. It's a mission that energizes me every day, and I'm excited to continue leading our organization towards even greater impact in the years to come.
GET INVOLVED NOW
Become a volunteer
Your time is as valuable as any monetary donation. Whether you're helping to chalk the lines, assisting in the snack bar, or mentoring young players, your contribution makes a real difference. Join our team and be part of the change in Puerto Rico's baseball community.
Donate to support
While 29% of the Earth is soil, quality baseball fields require more than just dirt. Your donation goes directly towards rebuilding fields, purchasing equipment, and supporting youth programs. Every dollar contributes to creating a field of dreams for Puerto Rico's young athletes.
Become a partner
Step up to the plate and make a lasting impact! By becoming a partner, you're not just supporting a cause—you're investing in the future of Puerto Rico's youth and the revival of baseball culture on the island. Let's work together to create opportunities and inspire the next generation.
OUR MISSION
Baseball isn't just a sport in Puerto Rico—it's a way of life, a cultural cornerstone that has produced some of the MLB's brightest stars. However, our beloved island faces challenges as formidable as any fastball: natural disasters that have devastated our communities and our fields.
In 2017, Hurricane Maria's destructive path left an indelible mark on our island, including our youth baseball fields. Since then, a combination of natural disasters and economic hardships has forced many of our baseball programs to take an unwanted time-out.
Pick Up Puerto Rico is more than just a non-profit 501(c)(3) charity based in San Juan. We're a team of passionate individuals who love both the game and this island. Our mission is clear: to restore hope by rebuilding fields, providing equipment, and revitalizing after-school programs.
We're committed to giving our youth safe spaces to play, learn discipline, and develop character through the timeless game of baseball. By fixing these fields and kickstarting programs, we're not just maintaining a tradition—we're investing in Puerto Rico's future.
Join us in our mission to rebuild these programs. Together, we can ensure that the next generation of Puerto Rican baseball legends will have the opportunity to play, grow, and shine on the diamonds we restore. Your support isn't just about baseball—it's about community, hope, and the future of Puerto Rico.
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