The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), in partnership with Maglite, will present a Hero Award to the Prince George's County (MD) Police Department for its extraordinary commitment to community engagement through its Prince George's County Police Athletic League (PAL). PAL is a juvenile crime prevention program that uses mentoring, educational, athletic and recreational activities to create trust and understanding between law enforcement and youth.

The award ceremony will take place on Monday, June 17 at 10 am inside the National Law Enforcement Museum.

"We believe these programs serve to help kids avoid negative activities," said Memorial Fund Interim CEO Lori Sharpe Day. "Programs like these also help strengthen the relationship between officers and the communities they serve by facilitating positive interaction between youth and law enforcement officers."

PAL assists our youth in developing character, integrity and leadership skills, as well as respect for themselves and others. The program also builds a bridge between our police officers and our community's youth, helping to provide a safe alternative to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and gang activity.

"The Prince George's County Police Department is extremely dedicated to our youth, and to providing resources and building blocks they need for success," says Prince George's County (MD) Police Chief Hank Stawinski. "We are very honored to be recognized for our commitment to helping these young people succeed."

PAL recently dedicated a basketball court at police headquarters for youth. The basketball court was a collaboration between the Prince George's County Police Department, its PAL program, and Nancy Lieberman's Dream Court.

For more information, visit www.LawMemorial.org.