Empowering Toledo PAL's Youth Programming
Books B4 Hoops for Boys
Toledo PAL’s Youth Enrichment Program called Books B4 Hoops empowers boys ages 12–17 with the guidance, skills, and opportunities they need to grow into confident young men. Beyond athletics, this program focuses on leadership development, academic support, mentoring, and community service. Participants learn the value of responsibility, respect, and resilience while building strong, positive relationships with mentors, peers, and police officers. By providing a safe and supportive environment, we help young men discover their strengths, make positive choices, and prepare for bright and successful futures.
Polished Emerald Project for Girls
The Polished Emerald Project is a Toledo PAL initiative created to inspire and empower young ladies in grades 6–12. This program provides a safe and supportive space where girls can explore their potential, build confidence, and develop valuable life skills. Through mentoring, workshops, community service, and enrichment activities, participants are encouraged to discover their unique strengths while preparing for future educational, professional, and personal success. PEP is about more than programs—it’s about shaping young women into polished “gems” who shine with resilience, leadership, and purpose.
toledo pal offering enrichment opportunities
College Campus Visits
Community Service Projects
Community Service Projects
As part of our Youth Enrichment Program, Toledo PAL takes participants on college visits to help them explore future educational opportunities. These experiences open doors, spark inspiration, and show our youth what’s possible beyond high school. Our kids enjoy seeing different campuses, meeting students, and learning about programs that can shape their future. By exposing them to higher education, we encourage them to dream big and take steps toward achieving their goals.
Community Service Projects
Community Service Projects
Community Service Projects
At Toledo PAL, we believe it’s just as important to build character off the field as it is on it. That’s why our youth participate in community service projects, such as park clean-ups, serving meals, and volunteering at PAL sports and events. These experiences teach responsibility, teamwork, and the value of giving back, while also helping our young people take pride in their neighborhoods. By serving others, our kids learn that they have the power to make a positive difference right where they live.
Educational Field Trips
Toledo PAL introduces youth to new experiences and ideas through hands-on educational field trips. From visiting museums and exploring history to taking cooking classes and learning about modern skills like podcasting, these trips give our kids the chance to see the world in exciting and meaningful ways. Each experience sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and demonstrates that learning can occur anywhere. By broadening their horizons, we help them discover new interests and opportunities for their future.
Police Explores Program
The Toledo Police Explorers Program is a youth initiative that provides young people, ages 14-21, with a hands-on introduction to careers in law enforcement, while fostering leadership, responsibility, and community pride. Open to teens and young adults, the program provides participants with training, mentorship, and opportunities to assist at community events alongside police officers. Explorers gain valuable knowledge about public safety, develop teamwork and communication skills, and experience what it means to serve their community. This program not only prepares youth for potential careers in law enforcement but also helps them grow into engaged and responsible citizens.