The San Francisco Police Activities League (SFPAL) builds community by organizing youth sports and healthy activities that develop personal character and fosters positive relationships among police officers, youth and dedicated volunteers. Founded in 1959 by a group of San Francisco policemen who wanted to keep kids off the streets and on the fields, our mission hasn’t changed in the ensuing six decades. We provide hope and opportunities to kids ranging in age from 5-20 years old throughout San Francisco by offering free athletic programs and educational programs kept at a minimal cost to the participants. Dedicated civilian and police coaches, instructors, mentors and former program participants choose to give back to the youth in the community by donating their time, energy and commitment to serve over 1,200 SFPAL kids annually.
SFPAL currently offers Fishing, Football, Cheer, Flag football, Jiu-jitsu, Basketball, and a Law Enforcement Cadet program to the youth of San Francisco. SFPAL pivoted with some programming and added a CrossFit, virtual Art and a virtual Chess program to our offering during the recent pandemic to stay connected and engaged with our participants. We serve youth who reside or attend school in San Francisco, and our programs are inclusive of all participant demographics. SFPAL also organizes various community events/projects such as the Annual Toy Drive, Canned Food Drive, Kids' Games event, Winter Wonderland and the Golden Gate Park clean-up. For more information, please visit SFPAL website.
Paid Police Cadet Program
For those 18 years of age and enrolled in a college program, the San Francisco Police Department is proud to offer our Police Cadet Program, a paid civilian position within the department for college students interested in the law enforcement field. Please note, this program is separate from our Law Enforcement Cadet Program which is geared for those under 17 years of age.
The goals of the Police Cadet program are to expose men and women to the various aspects of police work to prepare them for a career in law enforcement. The Police Cadet program helps to provide quality candidates for all law enforcement related positions including, but not limited to: Police Officer, Community Police Services Aide, or 911 Dispatcher.