History

Fifty years ago, two policemen decided they wanted to do something about the growing juvenile delinquency problem in San Francisco. They courageously took out personal loans and started what has grown into the San Francisco Police Activities League.

From this meager beginning and a handful of kids, SFPAL has grown to serve more than 5,000 youth annually with the help of 800 civilian and police volunteer coaches, instructors and mentors.

Since 1959, thousands of SFPAL youth have grown into leaders within the City of San Francisco, the San Francisco Police Department, and the business and nonprofit community.

SFPAL is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and receives no City funding.

Film premiere: “Champions: Celebrating 50 Years of SFPAL.”
This video was created for the 50th anniversary party of SFPAL in early November 2009. It highlights some of the police officers and civilian volunteers who have dedicated themselves so selflessly to the cause. And it highlights a few of the thousands of young success stories from the program. Click here to watch “Champions.”