Police Athletic League Partnerships and Program Expansion

The purpose of this program is to facilitate the implementation of a partnership between the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington, the Prince George's County Police Department, and the Prince George's County Police Athletic League. The shared mission of all three entities is to help boys and girls of all backgrounds, especially those who need us most, build confidence, develop character, and acquire the skills needed to become productive, civic-minded, responsible adults. This partnership will ultimately help the Prince George's County Police Department reduce juvenile crime in areas that are impacted by high rates of crime and recidivism by integrating its Prince George’s County Police Athletic League (PAL) programming into the brand-new Boys & Girls Clubs at Barlowe Road. In the near future, PAL would like to form a new baseball club, golf club and trade school program for teens. The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington uses an evidence-based formula to impact and engage families. This youth development philosophy works toward three priority outcomes: Academic Success, Good Character, and Healthy Lifestyles. Age-appropriate settings create a sense of safety; staff strive to make each feel they belong. Programs are offered in four targeted areas: Education/Career Development, Character/Leadership Development, The Arts/STEM, and Health/Life Skills. The expected outcomes of this program are a reduction in juvenile crime and recidivism in Prince George’s County and providing a forum through which youth and law enforcement can interact in a positive way.