Erin William
Editorial Assistant

From cooking classes to boxing practices, the Police Athletic League (PAL) has a program suited for every child’s interests. Founded in 1998, for over 20 years the Police Athletic League has provided after school activities and athletic practices, free of charge, for over 10,000 youth. In the month of May, PAL saw well over 1,200 participants with 19 new enrollments.

PAL’s mission is to “help children develop positive self-esteem, leadership skills, a sense of belonging, improve school performance, [and] resolve conflict.” PAL is a great opportunity, Sergeant Susie Fabian, the program coordinator, said, “to provide a space for officers and children to have a positive interaction.”

PAL offers a variety of sports and programs coached by different Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) officers, including softball, baseball, basketball, soccer, boxing, martial arts, pickleball, volleyball and running club. The PAL Center at 1801 White Ave. alsofeatures a weight room where students can receive coaching. Currently the PAL is looking to initiate a flag football program as well.

In line with their goal to “provide mentoring … focus on academics,” PAL also has programs dedicated to tutoring and homework help. Such programs include a computer lab, standard homework tutoring, tutoring for standardized examinations and Art Club.

“At PAL we want the children to succeed and recognize the importance of education,” Fabian said.
This summer PAL has temporarily shifted its regular hours, and children from ages 8-18 are able to use the open gym facilities from 1 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. During the school year, PAL is open Monday through Friday from 3 to 8 p.m.

Last week PAL hosted a “KC Sports Experience” where youth were able to meet with over 100 special olympians to be coached in a variety of sports including soccer, flag football and basketball.
“I feel honored to be a part of the program and am honored that I am able to touch the lives of students daily,” Fabian said.

Students enrolling in the program will “build immeasurable bonds” within the community as “once you’re a PAL kid, you’re always a PAL kid,” she added.

Families interested in enrolling their children into the Police Athletic League, can visit the PAL Center location at 1801 White Ave. Any child enrolling in the program must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. There is no charge to join PAL. For more information regarding PAL checkout their website at: https://www.kcpal.org.