Question: How can I get involved with a Police Activity League?
The best way to get involved with a PAL is to contact the local organization or program directly. Many of these programs have websites and social media pages dedicated specifically for finding new members or volunteers. You can also search online for any upcoming community events that may be hosted in your area by local police which will often involve PALs activities.
Find a PAL nearby
The first step is finding the PAL chapter near you. You can look on their website or contact your local police department directly for more information about any existing programs they may have in place.
Once you’ve found a program near you, look into whether or not they have any open roles for volunteers. If so, you may need to fill out a volunteer application and provide contact information, including emergency contacts if needed.
Or, just reach out to the PAL, or if it has a location, stop by and speak with someone. PAL programs depend on volunteers to operate and meet their mission, so they’ll be excited to hear from you.
Volunteer Opportunities with PALs
Depending on the program, there may be volunteer opportunities to get involved in such as coaching or mentoring youth. These positions require a criminal background check, but are great ways to help support the local PAL and make a difference in young people’s lives.
Common volunteer opportunities at PAL programs:
- Coaching
- Mentoring
- Helping with administrative tasks and paperwork
- Assisting in fundraising efforts or community events
- Making social media posts
- Updating the PALs website and events
Other ideas for getting involved
Another great way to become involved with a Police Activity League is through becoming an officer mentor. Officer mentors work one-on-one with young people going through various challenges, like transitioning into adulthood, making healthy lifestyle choices, developing self-esteem and many other life skills that are essential for success as well as forming positive relationships with law enforcement personnel.
You don’t need prior experience mentoring youth – just enthusiasm and commitment!
To become an officer mentor you must usually attend training sessions where you will learn about how to handle common issues such as violence prevention strategies before connecting with a young person who needs guidance from an adult figure they can trust in order establish constructive conversations around real world topics they face on regular basis during their teenage years!
Police Activity Leagues are a great way to get involved in your community and help young people develop.
Support a PAL in your community
If you don’t have the time or aren’t physically able, you can still support your local PAL program. You can make donations to the organization or fundraise on their behalf. Supporting a PAL program can be as small as donating any extra sports equipment or supplies you have in your home.
You can also attend any local events put on by the PAL organization, such as fairs or tournaments, to show your support and encourage young people taking part in the activities hosted there.
