East Lansing Police Department
The Police Athletic League (PAL) is a recreation-oriented juvenile crime prevention program that relies heavily on athletics and recreational activities to tighten
the bond between police officers and youth in the community. First incorporated in
the early 1930's, PAL has a long history of developing bonds between cops and
kids.
The league is based on the belief that children, if reached early enough, can develop
a strong, positive attitude towards police officers in their journey through life
towards the goal of adulthood and citizenship.
A PAL program brings youngsters under the supervision and constructive influence
of a responsible law enforcement agency and expands public awareness about the role
of a police officer.
PAL History
Thel eague was founded in 1998 by Lt. Lance Langdon, Lt. Tom Vanderwoude and Officer
James Campbell. Since the inception of PAL, there have been over 1,000 participants.
PAL is committed to making this number grow each year.
Mission Statement and Objective
It is the mission of the East Lansing Police Department Police Athletic League to
help prevent youth crime, by providing structured activities supervised by Police
Officers and community members. This reduction in crime is achieved through supervised
athletics, educational and social development activities which foster self-esteem
and respect for law and order.
Athletic Programs
Currently the PAL organization offers organized activities including youth flag
football, youth basketball and youth kickball.
Charity Events and Fundraisers
PAL is a non-profit 501c3 organization. It is funded through donations and fundraisers.
In the past. PAL has held a charity basketball game against the Detroit Lions, a
two-pound burrito eating contest at Pancherro's, sold Coke products at the National
Folk Festival, held gasoline raffles, car washes and received United Way and private
donations.
Community Support
PAL is dependent on many volunteers and supporters from throughout the community
of East Lansing. Although they cannot all be listed, PAL would not be
a success without them.
PAL Members
Chief Tom Wibert, Lt. Tom Vanderwoude, Officer Travis Bove, Office James
Campbell, Officer Chad Connelly, Lt. Kevin Daley, Captain Kim Johnson, Officer Khristine
Khory, Officer Barb Kraus, Officer NaQuita Niles, Officer Michelle Schlaack, Officer
Steve Whelan, Officer Jay Young, Dispatcher Heidi Williams, Sgt. Patti Nowak and
Sgt. Vanderwouwer.
Contact
For information on the
program contact officers Chief Tom Wibert, 319-6902 or Officer Steve Whelan, 319-69433.