We seek to build friendships between law enforcement officers and children within the community through relationships based on mutual respect, accountability, teamwork and trust. PAL was started in 1910 by NYPD, and has nearly 400 PAL Chapters in over 700 cities and 1,700 facilities throughout the United States, including the US Virgin Islands. PAL serves more than two million youth every year. The Police Athletic League is one of the oldest citizen-building youth programs in the nation. It builds friendships between law enforcement officers and children within the community and is based on the conviction that young people - if reached early enough - can develop strong positive attitudes towards police officers in their journey through life toward the goal of maturity and good citizenship. Studies have shown that if a young person respects a police officer on the ball field, in the gym or classroom, they will likely come to respect the laws that police officers enforce. Our staff and volunteers also have the opportunity to be a trusted authority figure that assists children with finding guidance, setting goals, and enjoying new life opportunities. PAL has embraced traditional American values where one generation responsibly shares its wisdom and helps kids learn to work together to be responsible for themselves, as well as set goals in their lives. The Henrico Police Athletic League was established in 2007.PAL offers year-round and seasonal sports programs, after-school education programs, and summer camps. PAL is a non-profit 501(c)(3) youth-serving organization with the cooperative effort of the community and is committed to providing safe and structured activities to the youth of Henrico. PAL employs officers and a highly trained civilian staff to oversee these programs to insure safety, competency and order. PAL programs and facilities are available to all youth, regardless of their race, religion or financial situation.
