The Oxnard PAL program seeks to foster a bond of mutual trust and understanding between police officers and young people by enabling them to interact in a non-confrontational setting. Educational, cultural and recreational activities are offered to the youth with emphasis placed on reaching those “at-risk”. PAL’s long term mission is to divert the youth away from gangs and criminal activity by bringing them alternative activities under the care and supervision of trained police officers, recreation staff, and parent and community volunteers.