Our mission: In partnership with the Detroit Police Department and community volunteers, Think Detroit PAL builds character in young people through athletic, academic, and leadership development programs.

History
Think Detroit PAL was formed on March 1, 2006, by the merger of two of the leading youth development organizations in the Detroit area: Think Detroit, Inc. and the Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL).

At the time of the merger, the organizations had a combined history of over 40 years of service to Detroit-area kids and families. Their work had included the successful $1.2M renovation of Maheras Gentry Park on Detroit’s eastern riverfront, and operation of the largest youth tackle football league in the nation. Their history also included numerous awards, including the designation by Crain’s Detroit Business as the Best-Managed Nonprofit in 2004, and recognition by the nation’s First Lady and the state’s First Gentleman.

The merger of these two organizations was designed to accomplish one goal: to serve more kids through better programs.

What do we do?

Think Detroit PAL touches thousands of Detroit-area children each year by providing them with a character-enriching opportunity to gain academic support or leadership training, play on a team in one of our youth sports programs, or advance their athletic development through skill-development camps and clinics. The organization annually serves 12,000 children, ages 4-19.

Academic & Leadership Programs
Athletic Leagues
Athletic Camps, Clinics & Tournaments