Our Mission Statement
To promote positive relationships between law enforcement and youth through community based educational programs and recreational opportunities.
2022 Annual Report
National PAL History
PAL began in the 1910s when Captain John Sweeney of the New York City Police Department had insight to offer inner-city youth with positive experiences, which involved law enforcement. He began the Police Athletic League or PAL knowing that the program would influence youth significantly. Police involvement and supervision at places of play—ball fields, classrooms and playgrounds—engaged the children and helped to position Police Officers as friends.
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Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Values Statement
Our Community, Our Responsibility
PAL commits to pursue our mission through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We condemn discrimination in any form. Our families come from diverse backgrounds, and as we seek to serve them, we do so with a growth mindset. We do not have all the answers, but we promise to learn and grow with our community. Additionally, we believe that having a diverse board and staff, reflective of the demographics of the students we serve, provides significant value to our programs and participants.
Make a difference in your community.
#WhyPALMatters
The Police Activities League of SW Washington is a youth development non-profit that partners with law enforcement agencies to build positive relationships between youth and law enforcement officers in the community through educational programs and recreational opportunities. PAL believes that it can help reduce the juvenile crime rates in Southwest Washington by empowering our young people to make responsible life choices. PAL offers children with year-round programs and special events that foster teamwork, encourage citizenship, and provide the opportunities to work with law enforcement officers and caring adult mentors.