BAYS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping youth and families build brighter futures through compassionate support, and community-based programs.
Originally founded as Bay Area Youth Services, Inc., BAYS was organized and chartered as a Florida Not-For-Profit Corporation on April 19, 1982. The agency, founded by the late William F. Bowman, was developed with the objective of improving the quality of life and increasing the potential of Florida’s youth. Over our 40+ year history, BAYS has grown into a multi-faceted statewide organization with an impressive array of services.
Our organization is focused on innovative approaches to better meet the needs of today’s youth and their families. Although historically we served primarily adolescents in juvenile justice diversion programs, we now serve children, youth, and their families through a variety of services that meet community needs.
We are proud of the partnerships and relationships that we have developed over the years and are committed are committed to working closely with children, youth, families, and the community to inspire change, growth, and success.
Our Mission
To work in partnership with individuals, families, and communities to inspire change, growth, and success.
Our Vision
We envision communities that believe in the value and worth of all people and their ability to change, grow, and succeed.
People Who Care
Executive Leadership Team
Our executive leaders set the direction for BAYS and guide our mission, strategy, and organization. Together, they shape the vision that moves our work forward and strengthens our impact across Florida.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors brings together dedicated community leaders who provide guidance, oversight, and support as BAYS continues to serve young people and families across Florida.
Senior Leadership Team
Our senior leadership team helps guide BAYS programs, operations, and services across Florida. They provide direction and support across the organization, helping our teams stay connected to the mission and the communities we serve.
Leadership Team
Our leadership team supports the people and programs that bring the BAYS mission to life each day. Working across our organization and communities, they help our teams provide quality services to children and families throughout Florida.
Strategic Plan
We structured our plan around five core anchors that reflect our mission and the needs of the people we serve.
1
People
2
Connection
3
Reach
Sustainability
4
5
Excellence
News & Press Releases
Stay up to date with the latest news, stories, and community impact from BAYS.
PRESS RELEASE
Tampa, Florida — August 10, 2026 — BAYS is proud to announce that it has been selected by LSF Health Systems to provide Functional Family Therapy (FFT) services in Florida's Fifth Judicial Circuit following a competitive solicitation process. The award expands access to FFT for children and families across Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion, and Sumter counties and further strengthens BAYS' position as the largest provider of Functional Family Therapy services in Florida.
PRESS RELEASE
Tampa, Florida — May 5, 2026 — BAYS is proud to announce it has been selected by Family Support Services (FSS) of Pasco and Pinellas Counties to provide evidence-based Functional Family Therapy (FFT) services following a highly competitive and intensive Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) process. This strategic partnership aims to bridge critical gaps in family preservation and reunification services within the Pasco and Pinellas judicial circuit.
PRESS RELEASE
April 1, 2026 — All THAT - Teens Hopeful About Tomorrow, Inc. (All THAT) and Bay Area Youth Services, Inc. (BAYS) are pleased to announce a formal partnership aimed at strengthening organizational capacity and expanding support for youth in the community. Through two new Memoranda of Understanding, BAYS will provide specialized professional services to All THAT in the areas of Strategic Planning and Fund Development.
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Pursuant to Florida statute 216.1366, Florida state funds used for remuneration to the officers of the organization totaled $391,215.21. No remuneration was provided to any member of the board of directors.
Accountability
This disclosure is provided in accordance with Florida Statute 216.1366.
Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Assistance
If you are Deaf or hard of hearing and need assistance accessing BAYS services, please contact our team.
