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Armory Center - Police Athletic League (PAL) Afterschool Program

SONYC middle school program for students ages 11-14 in Manhattan, provided by Police Athletic League

Program Overview

Section titled “Program Overview”

The Armory Center - Police Athletic League (PAL) offers a comprehensive SONYC afterschool program that serves as a cornerstone of youth development in Washington Heights. Located in upper Manhattan, this free program provides a vibrant mix of recreational, educational, cultural, and social programs for students in grades 6-8. Operating Monday through Friday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, PAL creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where young people can learn, grow, and connect, guided by Social-Emotional Learning principles.

Location & Contact Information

Section titled “Location & Contact Information”
DetailInformation
Address216 Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10032
BoroughManhattan (Washington Heights)
ProviderPolice Athletic League, Inc.
Websitepalnyc.org
Zip Code10032
Program HoursMonday-Friday, 3:00pm-6:00pm

Program Details

Section titled “Program Details”

Cost

Free

Age Range

Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)

Program Type

School’s Out New York City (SONYC)

Category

Youth Development

What Students Experience

Section titled “What Students Experience”

The SONYC program at Armory Center provides:

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Programs focused on self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making
  • Sports & Recreation: Basketball, volleyball, soccer, track and field, and fitness activities
  • Educational Support: Homework help, tutoring, and academic enrichment
  • Cultural Programs: Arts, music, dance, and cultural exploration activities
  • Social Development: Team building, peer relationships, and communication skills
  • Leadership Training: Youth council, peer mentoring, and character development
  • Police-Youth Relations: Positive interactions with NYPD officers serving as mentors
  • Community Service: Volunteer opportunities and civic engagement
  • Health & Wellness: Nutrition education, mental health support, and healthy living
  • College & Career Readiness: Academic planning and future preparation

About Police Athletic League

Section titled “About Police Athletic League”

The Police Athletic League (PAL) is one of New York City’s oldest and most respected youth development organizations, founded in 1914 to build positive relationships between police officers and community youth. PAL serves over 50,000 young people annually through afterschool programs, summer camps, sports leagues, and community centers across all five boroughs. The organization’s mission is to provide recreational, educational, cultural, and social programs that help young people realize their full potential as productive members of society. PAL programs are known for their emphasis on character development, discipline, and positive role modeling.

How to Enroll

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  1. Visit the Armory Center Stop by PAL Armory Center at 216 Fort Washington Avenue during program hours or call to inquire about enrollment.

  2. Complete Application Fill out the PAL program application form, available at the center or online at palnyc.org.

  3. Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of age, emergency contacts, and parent/guardian consent forms.

  4. Attend Orientation Participate in a student and family orientation to meet PAL staff, learn about activities, and understand program expectations.

  5. Begin Participation Start attending the program and exploring sports, educational, and cultural activities.

Required Documents

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  • Directoryenrollment-packet/
    • PAL program application form
    • Proof of age (birth certificate or school ID)
    • Emergency contact information
    • Parent/guardian consent form
    • Medical information and allergies
    • Photo/media release permission
    • Code of conduct acknowledgment

Nearby Amenities

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Transportation

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The center is accessible via multiple transit options:

  • A Train: 181st Street station (0.2 miles)
  • 1 Train: 181st Street station (0.3 miles)
  • Bx3, Bx7, Bx11, Bx13, M2, M3, M100, M101 buses serve the area

Community Resources

Section titled “Community Resources”

Washington Heights Library

New York Public Library branch with study spaces, computers, and community programs at 1000 St. Nicholas Avenue

Fort Washington Park

Waterfront park along the Hudson River with sports fields, playgrounds, and recreational facilities

NYPD 33rd Precinct

Local police precinct partnering with PAL for community safety and youth programs

New York-Presbyterian Hospital

Major medical center providing community health services and programs

Last Updated: November 25, 2025