The Albany Police Athletic League (PAL) offers a dynamic summer program designed to keep children active, engaged, and learning throughout the summer months.
The Albany Police Athletic League (PAL)’s annual Breakfast of Champions is a cornerstone event celebrating the organization’s impactful work with over 2,000 youth in Albany each year. Held at the Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel, this inspiring morning brings together community leaders, supporters, and honorees to recognize individuals who exemplify PAL’s mission of mentorship, leadership, and service.
From the crack of the bat to the swish of the net, Albany PAL’s sports programs engage hundreds of youth each year in structured, coach‑led leagues and clinics.
Designed for children ages 5–12, our daily 8:30 AM–5:30 PM program keeps kids active and engaged with gym time, arts & crafts, two exciting field trips, and nutritious snacks and lunch provided each day.
Albany PAL offers two flagship youth leadership initiatives that empower teens and strengthen police–community ties. They offer the Police Explorers program and the Youth Leadership Council (YLC).
The Albany PAL Center has teamed up with Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York to bring girls ages 5–13 a fun, free weekly club where they can make new friends, earn badges and grow into tomorrow’s changemakers.
AL’s Mentoring Program is a free, group‑based initiative that pairs Albany City youth with caring adult volunteers who meet three times a week at the Albany PAL Center for 60–90‑minute sessions.
The Albany Police Athletic League’s work within the community began in 1988, with the simple goal of creating a community bond between the youth and law enforcement of Albany. Since 1988, we have cultivated strong and resilient relationships between the law enforcement community and the youngest generations of Albany.
Today, the Albany Police Athletic League brings together kids, cops and community through a variety of after-school activities, summer camps, clubs, and sports programs. Through these partnerships, we hope to develop strong leaders who think critically, work hard, and act compassionately. We serve approximately 2,000 Albany youth every year, and continue to grow every day.
At Albany PAL, community isn’t just a word-it’s the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s a high-five from a police officer, a mentorship moment in an after-school program, or a child discovering their confidence through sports, PAL creates safe, positive spaces where connections thrive. We’re proud to unite youth, officers, and families in experiances that build trust, inspire growth, and strengthen Albany for generations to come.
Connections
Every smile, high-five, and shared experience at Albany PAL builds more than memories-it builds trust. Through safe, supportive environments, we create moments where kids feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it’s sports, clubs, or simply a friendly visit, these positive interactions lay the foundation for lifelong confidence and community bonds.
Trust
At Albany PAL, teamwork goes beyond the court. It’s about building trust, learning to lead, and growing together. Through every huddle, pass, and shared goal, our youth discover how to support one another-on and off the field. These moments shape not only great players, but great people.
Meeting a Therapy Dog
Very rewarding, enjoyed spending time with kids, very understanding of family life, allowed to make up shifts, enjoyed my coworkers, loved being able to give back to my community.
Counselor in Training, Albany PAL
Arts & Crafts
Their willingness to work with a child with disabilities is really important to me. Knowing you have this support as a single mom is always such comfort to see that people are going to have your back.
The children are always having fun. Staff and counselor are always there to help. This job meant a lot to me.
Receptionist, Albany PAL
Meeting a Police K-9
Worked with kids, was a mentor, was a staff at Albany PAL camp; I did a lot of helping out & building a bond with everyone at Albany PAL and with every child that joined Albany PAL summer.