The immediate aim of this project is to expand the New Mexico Police Athletic League's statewide prevention project, consisting of educational and recreational activities for at-risk youth.

The overall purpose of the New Mexico SPAL Project is to reduce negative behaviors and promote healthy behavioral patterns among New Mexico's youth by providing recreational, educational and cultural activities that unite youth (especially at- risk youth) with law enforcement officers, educators and other positive role models. The aim of the project is to build self-esteem and resiliency in youth, and to provide positive alternatives to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) use, delinquency and violence, gang activity, and other negative behaviors. NMSPAL programs and activities are also expected to build stronger ties of mutual trust and respect between police and youth, and to promote improved police-community relations. The target population at each site continues to be at-risk youth, children from persistently low-income families, children with incarcerated family members, and Native American Youth. Participants range in age from 6 ' 18, boys and girls, with approximately 60% Hispanic, 5% African-American, 15% Native American and 20% Anglo represented. The grantee will report findings to OJJDP in their Categorical Assistance Progres Reports. NCA/NCF