This Is What You Need to Know about How Sponsoring Sports Builds Communities

The Community-Police-Relations Foundation (CPR) helps strengthen the bonds between communities and law enforcement for safer, more prosperous communities.  

As part of its efforts, it supports initiatives and organizations that build on the power of sports as a tool for community engagement and harmony. 

Global Recognition of Sports as a Change Agent 

The benefits of sports are universally acknowledged. The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes sports as a device for peace and the promotion of tolerance and respect. It attributes sports to the empowerment of communities and individuals (particularly women and young people) as well as to health, education, and social inclusion. 

As part of implementing the Doha Declaration, the UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODOC) launched the Line Up Live Up evidence-based life skills training curriculum that uses sports as the delivery mechanism. The initiative gave at-risk youth the life skills to cope with life challenges without engaging in violence, crime, or drug use. The program was implemented in 14 countries and a report analyzing data from the program is available on UNODOC’s website. 

What Are the Benefits of Sports? 

Sports offers kids from all backgrounds personal and social benefits. Participating in sports promotes physical fitness and overall well-being. It helps combat obesity and related health issues while also reducing stress and promoting mental health. Sports teach children to work with others towards a common goal. They communicate, cooperate, and problem solve with one another. These skills are essential for success throughout life. Sports build self-esteem and confidence in children, particularly those who face challenges in other arenas.  

Sports require dedication, discipline, and goal setting. Children learn it's important to persevere and work hard to achieve their objectives. This knowledge is transferable to other aspects of life such as academics and career pursuits. Sports helped create a sense of belonging and community in children. They develop friendships, build support networks, and feel connected to something larger than themselves. 

Super-Charge Sports with Law Enforcement Involvement 

When police are included in community youth sports activities, there are often a number of additional positive outcomes. Children who grew up in or who live in disadvantaged communities may have negative perceptions of law enforcement because of past experiences or a history of community tensions. Engaging with kids in a casual social setting helps them identify and dismantle stereotypes about law enforcement. Positive interactions with police officers in a sports context can help bridge these divides and build trust.  

Police can be role models and mentors for children participating in sports programs by demonstrating values such as integrity, respect, and fair play that are integral to both sportsmanship and effective policing. By interacting with kids regularly, officers can provide them with guidance, support, and encouragement and help them make positive choices and avoid behavior society has identified as delinquent. 

Community sports programs give police officers the opportunity to engage proactively and positively with people who live in the communities they serve. By participating in recreational activities alongside residents, members of the police gain valuable insights into community dynamics and concerns. This lets them tailor their service to better meet the community's needs. 

Safe, resilient communities have a variety of constructive activities for kids. This reduces the likelihood they will engage in risky or criminal behavior. By investing in youth development and providing opportunities for positive engagement, police officers are community resources who contribute to long-term crime prevention efforts. A sense of connection is key to developing the two-way trust necessary for these efforts to be successful. 

Police-Initiated Community Youth Sports 

Examples of sports-related youth engagement initiatives that have helped create connections between police and youth in their communities include: 

The Police Athletic League (PAL)—This program was established in 1914 and incorporates police officers into its sports programming as coaches and mentors to youth. They also discuss a variety of topics related to leadership, life skills, and the roles officers play in the community. The Community-Police-Relations Foundation is a proud sponsor of several PALs nationwide. 

The Saturday Morning Hoops program in New Orleans and the Building Bridges Through Basketball program in Chicago was created at the request of NBA athletes wanting to make a positive difference in their communities. The NBA has partnered with community organizations, police departments, and RISE to foster police/community relationships. 

Miami Dolphins CommUNITY tailgates is an initiative administered by the Miami Dolphins that aims to bridge the divide between police and youth through sports. 

These initiatives demonstrate how sports can be a powerful tool for fostering positive relationships between youth and law enforcement, improving community engagement, and promoting social justice. They serve as good examples for other organizations to consider when developing their own youth engagement initiatives.