I attended a San Mateo PAL Board meeting as part of my Leadership program. During the meeting an officer told a story of how she helped a teenage girl and her mother move out of their house due to abuse. I can't write all the details here, but this officer was so giving of her time and spirit. And she even took the girl shoping the next day for some clothes and shoes. The story was so sad and inspiring at the same time. I have also met several PAL Board members and officers involved in the program. They are a stellar group of people who have the highest hopes for the youth of our area and provide support and inspiration that the kids need and deserve.
My kids love PAL actiivities, from the field trips, to beading, to drawing to homework help. They not only likes the activities but also the staff members, they are very friendly, caring and always helpful. I always recommend to other parents because is very good when you want to keep your children busy and out of trouble.
As a father the program & people running it are very nice & accommodating..My son REALLY ENJOYS THE DEEP SEA FISHING TRIPS,since Im a single dad,disabled & cant afford to do that with him..
This is a true solution for societal problems involving our community. It creates opportunites for kids and teaches them to grow because it is consistent with good role models (police). It creates comraderie with kids of similar backgrounds to have new experiences in sports, computers, camping, fishing. We're very lucky to have good funding in San Mateo, but other communities need this service as well. It also helps police better understand their community's challenges, instead of 'us vs. them' mentality.
