A huge thank you to Academy Sports & Outdoors for the incredible things they do for PAL and the kids we serve. Most recently, they hosted a “Shop with a Cop” night for PAL and provided 25 $100 gift cards for our kids as well as a $2,500 donation to our team! The kids had a blast shopping and we’re so grateful to have such strong support from Academy Sports & Outdoors.
Hundreds of kids had a great night at the PAL Back to School event on August 5. A steady stream of families came through the PAL Center to get ready for a new school year. Approximately 200 elementary, 50 middle school and 75 high school students enjoyed pizza, ice cream, games, face painting, and nail painting while getting books from the mobile library, free haircuts, sports physicals, and school supplies.
Recruiters from Academy Elementary were there to chat with families and high schoolers got to meet with PAL board member, Coach Bill O’Connor. He was on-hand to help them with post-high school plans such as college, vocational training or job placement. About 60 volunteers helped manage the various activities and made sure everyone had a good time and got what they needed to start school on a positive note. It was a fun, successful night and we appreciate everyone who made it possible!
PAL hosted a fun and informational Field Day on July 29. Representatives from several different divisions of the Kansas City Police Department were on-site to visit with the kids. It was a great opportunity for learning and making new friends. Thanks to everyone who participated and made it a cool event!
PAL enjoyed a recent visit with a group from the El Salvador Scout Association. These amazing young people, ages 15-24, were in Kansas City learning about emergency management and community service. Their visit was hosted by Global Ties KC, a nonprofit that facilitates international exchange programs to build global understanding and citizen diplomacy. While in the area, the scouts met with various emergency service agencies and stopped by PAL to have some fun playing yard games while also discussing the concept of this community-building resource.
PAL partnered with the Whatsoever Community Center to host their “Battle in Northeast” boxing event on May 18. Held at PAL, it was a great opportunity to welcome the community into our facility, show them our space and give them a glimpse of what PAL offers. Thank you to everyone involved in collaborating on this event to make it a fun, exciting and successful day.
The PAL annual clothing giveaway on April 27 was our most successful one yet! We’re extremely grateful for the generosity of the Kansas City community. We had over 350 families just within the first hour and were able to serve so many because of the incredible support and donations we received. All kinds of items filled the gym at KC PAL—from new bikes and toys to suits and school clothes. We even had size 16 shoes from Tony Gonzalez! From everyone at PAL and those who benefited from this event, thank you to all who made this amazing day possible.
