
OUR VISION
We envision a thriving, inclusive Alameda County where unincorporated communities are connected, empowered, and resilient.
Through collaboration, education, and support, we aim to create a future where every individual, family, and neighborhood has the tools and opportunities to achieve personal success, collective growth, and a healthy, vibrant quality of life.
OUR MISSION
DSAL’s mission is to build connected, empowered communities in the unincorporated areas of Alameda County by supporting youth and families, promoting health, education, and public safety through collaboration between the community and the Sheriff's office.
Through tailored programs and local partnerships, we strive to create pathways for lifelong growth and success.

"There's a lot of talk.
I want to be known for action - for doing something and making a difference."
DSAL Coach Manny
"I grew up in this program, and it changed my life forever.
This program saved me."
DSAL Coach Bahati


"I am so proud to be a part of their change and their lives. They are like family to me."
DSAL Coach Angie
OUR STORY
Founded in partnership with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office, DSAL operates as a holistic crime prevention strategy - using health and fitness programming to build healthier bodies, stronger communities, and safer neighborhoods. DSAL serves Ashland and Cherryland - the unincorporated Eden Area -with community infrastructure projects that provide safe spaces for connection and growth, and free health and fitness programming that gives residents the resources to build strong life skills that will carry them across the finish line to success.

Our investment in permanent community assets began in 2007 and many of these spaces continue to serve residents to this day. The DSAL Boxing and Fitness Gym and Sunset Futsal Courts, in collaboration with Hayward Adult School, have created a foundation of accessible spaces where individuals of all ages can gather, pursue fitness goals, and form supportive connections with neighbors and mentors.

By removing financial barriers that have historically kept Eden Area residents from accessing organized athletics, and by providing coaching from positive role models who demonstrate discipline, respect, and community investment, DSAL creates pathways to leadership and healthy development.
Our facilities and programs now serve thousands of community members each year, offering heath and fitness programming that provides the supervision, structure, and trusted mentor relationships that prevent violence and strengthen community empowerment.

WHY FREE SPORTS MATTER
Sports are proven pathways to healthier communities, safer neighborhoods, and stronger futures. The research is overwhelming: when young people and adults have access to quality sports programming, everything improves - from physical and mental health to academic performance to community safety.
Yet in communities like ours, access to organized sports has become increasingly out of reach as costs skyrocket and commercial programs dominate the landscape.
In Ashland and Cherryland, where median household incomes are significantly below county averages, these costs put organized sports out of reach for most families.
DSAL removes this barrier entirely - every program is free.
infographic/more visually interesting
YOUTH SPORTS HAVE BECOME UNAFFORDABLE
$693 = Average cost per sport per year per child (Aspen Institute)
$1,200-$6,000 = What 63% of parents pay annually for youth sports (TD Ameritrade)
1 in 5 families pay MORE than $12,000/year for youth sports (TD Ameritrade)
$15 BILLION = Size of youth sports industry (Time Magazine/Aspen Institute)
43% of kids in homes earning $100K+ play sports
Only 22% of kids in homes earning under $25K play sports (Aspen Institute)
THE PROVEN BENEFITS OF YOUTH SPORTS PARTICIPATION
To a youth, sports are fun games - a chance to get outside and connect with friends both new and old.
To us, they're proven pathways to healthier communities, safer neighborhoods, and stronger futures.
The research is overwhelming: when youth and adults have access to quality sports programming, everything improves - from physical and mental health to academic performance and community safety.
Physical Health Benefits
-
Reduces obesity risk
by preventing weight-related diseases
-
Builds lifelong fitness habits -
active kids become active adults
-
Strengthens cardiovascular health
-
Improves motor skills and coordination
-
Meeting the federal youth sports participation target of 63.3% by 2030 could save $80 BILLION in healthcare costs (Study)
Mental Health Benefits
-
Reduces stress and anxiety
-
Builds self-confidence and self-esteem
-
Decreases depression symptoms
-
Provides healthy outlet for emotions
-
Creates sense of belonging and community
Academic Benefits
-
Better grades and test scores
-
Improved school attendance
-
Enhanced focus and concentration
-
Higher likelihood of graduating high school
-
Increased college enrollment
Social/Life Skills
-
Teamwork and collaboration
-
Leadership development
-
Conflict resolution
-
Discipline and perseverance
-
Goal-setting abilities
Data from Project Play (Aspen Institute), CDC, NIH, peer-reviewed research

Data from Project Play (Aspen Institute)
HOW ACCESSIBLE SPORTS KEEP COMMUNITIES SAFE
🔗 High school sports participation lowers major crime and suspensions
🔗 Sports programs reduce juvenile delinquency by providing positive outlets during high-risk after-school hours
🔗 Sports core values: respect, equality & fair play - are fundamental principles for peaceful and inclusive societies.
(United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)
*icons or pictures .... just something visual to break up the text
PARTICIPANT BENEFITS
"DSAL has helped me become a better person and improve my overall mental health. I've realized that fighting at school and getting in trouble isn't worth it...
"Putting my energy into training and improving myself is a much better path."
Erwin, (age 13) Boxing participant

"This program helped me improve my health. I lowered my risk of having diabetes and had a huge increase in my social life.
"Everyone that attends and starts this class changes their life because it is an amazing program for anyone."
Ana, Muevete participant

"This program encouraged me to participate as well, so I started coming to the women’s soccer nights. We always feel welcomed, and I love seeing the dedication and time the coaches give to the children.
"Galilea has become more confident and made more friends. She is more positive, and has improved focus in school and at home. She is more energized and has more motivation. The encouragement she receives makes a real difference in her life."
Galilea's Mother , Soccer participant

OUR IMPACT








