New York State Assemblyman Rob Walker (R,C-Hicksville) joined the Nassau County Police Athletic League (PAL) at its annual awards dinner and presentation ceremony to recognize the outstanding service and dedication of PAL volunteers, officers and directors, including Hicksville's own Pam Geslak.

"The tremendous work that the Police Athletic League, their volunteers, officers and directors provide to our children and communities is a continuation of the dedication and service they provide to Nassau County," said Walker. "I salute all of the award recipients and PAL members for all the opportunities they create and provide to the children of Nassau County."

The PAL has a 90-year history of caring and providing alternatives for youths at risk. PAL originated around 1910 when Capt. John Sweeney of the New York City Police Department had the insight to offer inner-city youth some positive experiences with law enforcement. He began the PAL program knowing that providing a safe environment and supportive role models would help guide their activities and have a positive influence. Police involvement and supervision at ball fields, classrooms and playgrounds engaged the children and helped position police officers as friends.

PAL is a youth crime prevention program that utilizes educational, athletic and recreational activities to create trust and understanding between police officers and youth. It is based on the principle that young people, if reached early enough, can develop strong positive attitudes toward police officers in their journeys through life toward the goal of maturity and good citizenship.

Today, PAL centers offer structured and personal guidance in a safe, friendly environment and provide a variety of activities, from organized competitive sports, recreational activities, arts and educational programming to cultural and social skill development programs. PAL is a volunteer-driven organization with an estimated 80,000 volunteers across the country supporting all levels of programming. Though chapters are sponsored by law enforcement agencies, many PAL programs depend in large part on support from private sectors, such as individuals, business leaders, corporations and foundations.