Newark Morning Rotary members were on hand for the dedication of the PAL mobile unit in the summer of last year, with Rotarian and Newark City Councilman, Jason Lawhorn, holding scissors, helping to cut the ribbon. The Newark Morning Rotary Club has partnered with the Newark Police Department to tackle two challenges with one solution. Firstly, as seen in national news, there isn’t often a strong connection between youth and their local police force. Some believe this is due to their limited exposure to or experiences with police, which can result in a lack of trust or respect for law enforcement. Additionally, it can be a challenge for officers to get to know the kids in the community. Secondly, although the City of Newark has 32 parks spread out across the city, many are not easily accessible or conducive to play, limiting recreational options for children, especially on the weekends or during summer break. That lack of structured play and recreational access can be a breeding ground for bad decisions or encourage children to stay inside and on technology. The Newark Police Department FOP Lodge #4 has recognized the need to provide more outdoor and recreational opportunities for kids in Newark and has long-term plans to build a Police Athletic League
(PAL) Center in the city. In the meantime, before funds can be raised to construct an actual center, a traveling mini PAL Ce nter in a mobile trailer will travel around the city bringing recreational and educational activities to various neighborhoods, giving children an opportunity to participate in organized recreational activities. There will be additional items for the youth to take home to play with in their own backyards. The trailer will travel weekends and throughout summer months, weather permitting. Officers will have a chance to play games, read books, and interact with the children. In return the children will get to know the officers and build relationships and trust with them in a stress-free, fun atmosphere where the children live. As relationships develop and grow, any barriers should improve over time. FOP Lodge #4 and Newark PAL is fully committed to this project. Newark PAL Board Members include Newark Police Department Master Corporal Morgan Fountain and Sergeant Greg D’Elia, as well as our club Rotarian and City Councilman Jason Lawhorn.
PAGE 16 • NEWARK MORNING ROTARY’S ‘REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY’