PAL programs foster relationships between local youth and police officers.
Stated more specifically, its mission is to prevent crime among youth through recreation, education, and athletics from affordable after school programs to summer camps. These programs are based on the conviction that if young people are reached early enough, they can develop strong, positive attitudes towards police officers in their journey through life leading them to maturity and good citizenship.
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is joining the charge this year through its 6th Annual 5k Run presented by MBA happening on the racetrack on Friday evening, March 9th. Over 1,000 runners and walkers will directly support this important work with all proceeds going to PAL. More information about the event, and registration can be found at gpstpete5k.com.
"The St. Petersburg Police Athletic League is thrilled to again be the beneficiary of the Firestone Grand Prix 5K presented by Modern Business Associates. With 97 percent of the children we serve receiving a free or a reduced program fee, this support is critical to us being able to combat juvenile crime in our community,” said John Ullrich, PAL board chairman and assistant vice president, Wallace Welch & Willingham. “Currently, about 150 children participate in a PAL program each day. With this commitment, we will be able to continue to provide programming to this group at a critical point in their lives.”
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg 5K Run presented by MBA was also the lead sponsor of PAL’s largest annual fundraiser called the Founders Club Brinner, because breakfast is served for dinner for all guests by the Parkshore Grill. Nearly $150,000 was raised at the historic St. Petersburg Coliseum that night, and its local accomplishments of the past year were duly celebrated.
"Kevin Savoree, the entire Firestone Grand Prix staff and I were extremely proud to be such a special part of the 2018 PAL Brinner. Our support couldn’t happen without Christopher McDonald and his team at Modern Business Associates also lending a hand," said Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, organizers of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. "The work that PAL does has such an impact on our immediate community, and the PAL Brinner is always a great fundraising event for its programs.”
A live bid auction of unique experiences capped off the Brinner’s festivities. One of those items that helped raise even more funds was an once-in-a-lifetime ride in the Indy car two-seater at speed around the 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary circuit during this race weekend with Mario Andretti at the controls.
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is honored to be able to play a small part toward the life-changing work happening every day through the efforts of PAL and its leadership, staff and numerous volunteers to drive a better future for local youth. To learn more about the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg, please visit stpetepal.org.