COLUMBUS – After an absence of more than 20 years, the city is bringing back the Columbus Police Athletic League amid a rise in violent crime, much of it involving young people, either as victims or perpetrators.
The PAL is a partnership between the Columbus Division of Police and the departments of Recreation and Parks and Neighborhoods, Mayor Andrew Ginther announced Thursday.
“Columbus PAL is a great opportunity for law enforcement to further strengthen their relationships with our city’s youth and their families. By serving as mentors, coaches, advocates and role models, our officers will connect with the community on a more personal level,” Ginther said.
Following a training program that a sports-specific curriculum, understanding community youth, social-emotional learning, and modeling and teaching empathy, police officers and members of the public who volunteer will work with youth ages 6-18 in organized sports and other programs, Ginther said.
“Getting to know our community is an important part of our job, as it allows us to better understand them and better serve them,” First Assistant Chief of Police LaShanna Potts said.
Columbus PAL will begin in December at five community centers — Douglas, Adams, Marion Franklin, Sullivant Gardens and Blackburn — with basketball and will eventually expand to include baseball, boxing, cheerleading, gymnastics, softball, soccer and summer camps.
The Recreation and Parks Department will consider adding additional programs and other sports in the future, including lacrosse, cricket, pickleball and tennis.