Police Athletic Leagues

The origin of Police Athletic Leagues (PALs) developed out of concern by civic leaders for safe playgrounds for students. The first notable governmental efforts began in New York City in 1898 when school buildings were opened for evening recreation programs. By 1907, 26 schools in the city had such programs. The Public Schools Athletic League was established in 1903; it had 150,000 participants by 1910. The next step was taken in 1914 and led to the creation of the Police Athletic League when NYC Police Commissioner Arthur Woods began a city-wide search for vacant lots to be converted into playgrounds. He also set aside city blocks where traffic was prohibited so that youngsters had more play spaces. The goal of the program was to reduce tensions between police officers and youth. When Commissioner Woods inspected play streets, mothers rushed to thank him, and children cheered his efforts. Today, there are hundreds of local PAL chapters serving a total of 1.5 million kids annually. In some areas, PAL may be the only activity or athletic program available for young people. The activities of several local PAL chapters are reviewed. Special emphasis is given to the variety of youth programs sponsored by the NYC Police Department as well as police agencies in Little Rock (Arkansas), Minneapolis, Chicago, and Philadelphia. PAL activities are not limited to sports as dances, youth choirs, indoor games, tutoring, and mentoring programs are offered.