The Police Athletic League (PAL) is a recreation-oriented juvenile crime prevention program that relies heavily on athletics and recreational activities to tighten the bond between police officers and youth in the community. First incorporated in the early 1930's, PAL has a long history of developing bonds between police officers and kids.
The league is based on the belief that children, if reached early enough, can develop a strong, positive attitude towards police officers in their journey through life towards the goal of adulthood and citizenship.
A PAL program brings youngsters under the supervision and constructive influence of a responsible law enforcement agency and expands public awareness about the role of
a police officer.
PAL History The league was founded in 1998 by Lt. Lance Langdon, Lt. Tom Vanderwoude and Officer James Campbell. Since the inception of PAL, there have been over 3,000 participants. PAL is committed to making this number grow each year. Mission Statement and Objective It is the mission of the East Lansing Police Department Police Athletic League to help prevent youth crime, by providing structured activities supervised by Police Officers and community members. This reduction in crime is achieved through supervised athletics, educational and social development activities which foster self-esteem and respect for law and order. Athletic Programs Currently the PAL organization offers organized activities including youth flag football, youth basketball and youth kickball. Charity Events and Fundraisers PAL is a non-profit 501c3 organization and is funded through donations and fundraisers. In the past, PAL has raised funds through fundraising events including a charity basketball game against the Detroit Lions and a two-pound burrito eating contest at Panchero's.
In addition, PAL has established a long-standing partnership with the Canada Dry Bottling Company of Lansing. PAL has sold Faygo and Monster beverages at the Great Lakes Folk Festival and Gus Macker Tournament in downtown East Lansing. Canada Dry and their staff continue to be supporters of PAL through numerous beverage donations at PAL events. Most recently, East Lansing PAL has partnered with the Lansing Police Athletic League on an annual golf tournament as our primary fundraiser. Community Support PAL is dependent on many volunteers and supporters from throughout the community of East Lansing. Although they cannot all be listed, PAL would not be a success without them. PAL Members Chief Tom Wibert, Lt. Tom Vanderwoude, Officer Travis Bove, Office James Campbell, Officer Chad Connelly, Lt. Kevin Daley, Captain Kim Johnson, Officer Lynn Haske, Officer Kristine Khory, Officer Barb Kraus, Officer NaQuita Niles, Officer Michelle Schlaack, Officer Steve Whelan, Officer Jay Young, Dispatcher Heidi Williams, Sgt. Patti Nowak, Sgt. Vanderwouwer and Cadet Alyssa Peterson. Contact For information on the program contact (517) 319-6897 x6467.