HISTORY: The Police Athletic League (PAL) is a recreation-oriented, juvenile crime prevention program that relies heavily on athletics and recreational activities to strengthen the bond between police officers and kids in our community. First incorporated in the early 1930's, the PAL has a long history of developing bonds between cops and kids. P.A.L. has a strong belief in the ability of this program to help our children form better foundations for growth, and to help them achieve the success that comes from developing good community relations.

The Police Athletic League is based on the belief that children, if reached early enough, can develop a strong, positive, attitude towards police officers in their journey through life towards the goal of adulthood and citizenship.

A PAL program brings youngsters under the supervision and constructive influence of a responsible law enforcement agency and expands public awareness about the role of a police officer. That role is the positive reinforcement and support of the responsible values and attitudes instilled in young people by their parents.

Youth sports programs have contributed significantly to the reduction of delinquency in our communities. Police Athletic League's use athletic and recreational programs as a tool; a way to involve children in the program. While involved with PAL, the message of avoiding gangs, drugs, alcohol, and other detriments, is discussed with the youngsters. Although nationally known as a recreation program, the Police Athletic League has adapted to the changing times. PAL programs now incorporate programs such as computer skills, mentoring, and homework help, to further aid our children.

Studies show that if a youngster responds to a police officer in a positive way on the playing field or in the classroom, he or she will very likely come to respect the laws that a police officer enforces. Such benefit to the youngsters and to the neighborhood and business community in which they grow up is virtually immeasurable.

SMYRNA P.A.L. HAS 4 GOALS:

  • To provide a positive and exciting experience for boys and girls from homes with limited financial resources.
  • To guide youngsters in making responsible decisions in life by furnishing a positive role model whose attitudes and behavior can be emulated.
  • To foster communications and understanding between our youth and the police by encouraging friendship among them.
  • To reduce the incidence of juvenile crime, substance abuse, and gang violence.
Kids need PALS... and P.A.L. needs you!
Kids want to be helped and PAL wants to help kids. Won't you please help PAL? You'll be making a meaningful investment in a child's future.
 Assistance to PAL takes many forms.
 We urge you to contribute to the creation of successful young lives in any way you can.
 

Helping Smyrna's Youth find safe alternatives through
sports and activities.

For more information contact Capt. Jeff Dwyer at 615.459.6644
  • Donating or funding sports equipment and uniforms.
  • Donating or funding tickets to special events.
  • Volunteering your time and talents to the organization and its children.
  • Funding through Corporate donations and individual gifts.
  • Alert us to potential grant sources.
  • Offering to arrange a field trip.

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