DSAL Makes it into the Top Five in National PAL Photo Contest!
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
This March, the National Association of Police Athletic/Activities Leagues Inc. (National PAL) announced the results of its first-ever PAL Photo of the Year contest - and DSAL made it into the final round as one of the top five finalists!
The photo that represented us - our beloved Coach Angie, seated in a circle with our youth participants, everyone's hands in the middle - shows the quiet but powerful strength of our community:
- Young people who gave something new a chance, felt welcome, and chose to be part of something bigger than themselves.
- A coach who shows up every day and makes everyone she encounters feel seen and supported.
- A network of individuals that keep showing up, pushing their own limits, and building something stronger together.
Out of entries from PAL chapters across the entire country, our entry rose to the top five - and we couldn't be prouder of the community behind it.
Hands all in - just like our hardworking staff and participants do every day.
National PAL is the nation's leading organization working to strengthen communities by fostering positive relationships between youth and law enforcement. Their mission - connecting kids, cops, and communities to foster trust and respect, and reduce crime in our neighborhoods - is part of what DSAL has been doing in Ashland and Cherryland in partnership with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office for over twenty years.
Nationwide, the majority of PAL chapters report lower rates of justice-involved youth, and 80% of PAL youth report growth in respect and trust of law enforcement, leading to safer neighborhoods. DSAL is proud to be part of that national network - united by the belief that accessible sports, strong mentorship, and supportive relationships are among the most powerful tools for building safer, stronger communities.
Congratulations to Coach Angie and to every participant who has ever put their hand into that circle.
You're the reason we do this work - and you're the reason a photo from our little corner of Ashland and Cherryland stood out on a national stage.