The Richmond Police Athletic League is best known for its athletic activities for young people. But thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, PAL now also will be known for coaching youths in the game of life.
The MyPAL Mentor Program will match volunteer mentors with a young person to meet at PAL at least one hour a week for a one-year commitment. In addition to providing a role model and a listening ear, the program will give mentors and mentees the chance to engage in a variety of one-on-one and group activities with other MyPAL participants to promote social skills and overall well-being.
“A trusting relationship with a caring adult can have a lifelong, life-changing effect on a young person,” Community, Youth and Intervention Captain Sybil El-Amin said. “We are glad we can provide an outlet and a venue to build and support these types of relationships.”
The Richmond PAL chapter is one of 135 across the country to receive an award from the Justice Department and the National Association of Police Athletic/Activities Leagues to establish a mentoring program.
Adult volunteers are needed for the MyPAL Mentor Program in Richmond. A mentor orientation will be held 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 30, at PAL, 1365 Overbrook Road. For more information, contact Shirley Crawford, MyPAL mentor coordinator, at 804.646.1832.
