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The Stamford PAL has sponsored more than three dozen local youth sports teams ranging from little league baseball, girls softball, soccer, ice hockey, crafts, clubs and activities. In total, nearly $15,000 is raised yearly to fund all of these youth programs in the PAL. These range from its annual August school backpack giveaway, Thanksgiving turkey giveaway, winter coat, hat, and scarf drive, Toys for Tots Program for struggling families and also programs for disabled teens and adults.
Over the last 21 years with the involvement of Stamford Police Association officers, nearly 35,000 properly fitted bicycle helmets also have been given away to Stamford youth. Members of the Stamford Police have also sponsored a high school “After Prom Safety Program.” Support of this program has helped provide local high schoolers an enjoyable, safe and alcohol free environment to gather after the prom.
“In recent years, the Stamford Police Association and our Police Athletic League have stepped up their activities with a larger presence to make a true life-long positive impact on the lives of youths throughout Stamford,” said Todd Lobraico, president of the Stamford Police Association. “Part of community policing is creating a more seamless and regular interaction with the people we serve and protect,” he said.
“I’ve seen the direct impact Stamford’s PAL has had on local kids. In the last 20 years with the program, I’ve seen many grow, go off to college and find great jobs. After a long, difficult winter season, Stamford’s youth are anxious to get outdoors, interact with others, and above all, have fun without putting a hole in their families’ pockets,” said Officer Robert Somody, Stamford PAL chairman, .
Lobraico credits programs such as PAL and others at the community level as being reasons why Stamford is consistently ranked as one of America’s safest large cities. “The message we want to continue to send to community youth and those who require some help and support in these difficult times is that Stamfordites give back and care.”
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