A group of Queens youth celebrated a day filled with enriching events at the Police Athletic League’s (PAL) annual Lights On Afterschool event on October 24.
The event featured PAL centers and sites across the five boroughs, including youngsters from the Pathways Prep site located at 109-89 204th St, St. Albans. Participants enjoyed a day filled with open houses, Halloween-themed activities, carnivals, and student showcases to highlight how PAL’s afterschool program promotes further enrichment for kids living across the city. Pathways’ cheer team, The Baby Blazers, and its Majorette Club performed at the event.
Led by the Afterschool Alliance, the nationwide event aims to encourage lawmakers, businesses, and community stakeholders to increase funding and support for after-school programs. The annual Lights On Afterschool program celebrates the achievements of after-school students while spotlighting how vital after-school programs are for millions of children nationwide who are left unsupervised during the weekdays.
PAL’s afterschool programs primarily focus on STEAM initiatives, including coding, sustainable beehives, hydroponics, and dance workshops. PAL also offers homework help, tutoring, internships, and career development
Founded in 1914, New York City’s Police Athletic League is a nonprofit organization that annually provides recreational, educational, cultural, and social activities to 15,000 children and teens.
