The Corpus Christi Chief of Police, Floyd Simpson, accepted a check at Police Headquarters on October 17 for $101,808 dollars on behalf of the Corpus Christi Police Athletic League. The money was raised at the third Annual Dove Hunt on October 5 at the Lonesome Dove Ranch. This event was organized by Valero and supported by many sponsors. Mrs. Berry generously provided access to the Lonesome Dove Ranch for a day of hunting, skeet shooting, and other activities. This one charity alone is the entire operating budget for the year for the Police Athletic League.

The Corpus Christi Police Athletic League offers recreational and athletic activities for at-risk youth in the community. The Police Athletic League began in Corpus Christi 10 years ago with 250 children and has now grown to 2,500 – 2,700 children ages 3-18 who are enrolled in the Corpus Christi Police Athletic League today.

The Police Athletic League is operated by volunteers, coaches, and support from community partners to provide positive role models and a family friendly environment for kids to participate in tee ball, basketball, baseball, volleyball, martial arts, softball all in a safe, fun, and encouraging atmosphere. Beyond the sports part, kids are learning life skills that will benefit them for years to come.

The Police Athletic League is always looking for volunteers and donations to the program. No child is turned away from CCPAL because of their income status. The Police Athletic League is 100% funded by contributions from companies, individuals, and foundations. The City of Corpus Christi and Police Department have been very good to the program providing land for baseball fields and police volunteers, but don’t receive any funds from the Police Department. The Police Athletic League relies on the public to support the Corpus Christi Police Athletic League.

The Corpus Christi Police Athletic League would like to build a new boxing gym and support current programs with the money raised from the hunt.