The Police Athletic League of Philadelphia (PAL) is a youth development organization whose mission, “Cops Helping Kids,” is to make a positive difference in the lives of young people, ages 6 to 18, and in doing so, contribute to the overall quality of life in Philadelphia. By providing free educational, athletic, recreational and cultural after-school and summer programs in the safe environments of its many centers, PAL programs prepare children and teens to become confident, successful and productive citizens. All PAL activities are supervised by full-time, specially trained Philadelphia Police officers, providing a unique opportunity for nurturing strong and positive relationships between inner-city kids, their communities and law enforcement.
HISTORY IN HARROWGATE NEIGHBORHOOD
We have operated out-of-school time programs in the Harrowgate (and Fairhill) neighborhoods for more than 50 years. PAL’s violence prevention efforts are successful because we provide two on-duty police officers mentoring our youth at our Harrowgate PAL center, building relationships between cops and community. The officers build relationships with the youth and family members, community and neighbors so they are an ear to what is going on in the community with a pro-active approach to address concerns.
PAL exemplifies the best in community policing by working proactively with the community to lead youth away from negative temptations and lead them on a path to become the best versions of themselves. PAL is a public-private partnership between the non-profit, and the PAL Unit of the Philadelphia Police Department. PAL officers supported by civilians and volunteers – offer sports, educational, and cultural programs to youth in 18 PAL Centers strategically located in the City of Philadelphia’s highest crime, lowest income neighborhoods.
Harrowgate PAL Center is directed by Officers Jessica Martinez and Angel Gonzales who together, with support staff, deliver mentoring and athletic, academic and cultural enrichment programming to engage over 400 Harrowgate area youth annually. Both officers are specially trained in trauma-informed care and work year-round to protect the physical security for students and support their behavioral health through evidence-informed mentoring programs.
Every day Harrowgate PAL Center is open, youth are given inspiration and motivation to achieve their goals, and families are given peace of mind knowing their children are safe.
