SAFE Family Justice Centers Celebrates National Recognition and Honors Community Heroes Who Make Mentorship Possible
[Temecula, CA – May 15, 2025] — SAFE Family Justice Centers is honored to share that its Riverside County Police Activities League (PAL) chapter has been named Chapter of the Year by National PAL. This award celebrates the power of connection, the strength of community-led mentorship, and the extraordinary collaboration between youth, advocates, and local law enforcement.
For many young people, PAL is more than a program—it’s a lifeline. A safe place to be heard. A consistent space to grow. It’s where kids find encouragement, form lasting bonds, and begin to believe in their own potential. At the heart of this movement are the trusted adults who show up—week after week—with open minds and open hearts.
“Our PAL program is living proof that when we invest in people—when we show up for our youth with love, structure, and hope—we build a future that’s stronger than anything trying to break them,” said Marshall Hamilton, Executive Director of SAFE Family Justice Centers.
The Riverside County PAL program, hosted by SAFE Family Justice Centers, thrives because of its deep partnerships with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Murrieta Police Department, Menifee Police Department, Indio Police Department, and the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office. Together, they offer mentoring rooted in trust, accountability, and genuine care.
This year’s celebration is made even more meaningful by the recognition of Murrieta Police Department Corporal Mozingo, who was named Law Enforcement of the Year for his unwavering dedication and mentorship. Corporal Mozingo is more than a badge—he is a role model, a steady presence, and a reminder to every PAL kid that they matter.
“Our kids have told us that PAL feels like a second family,” Hamilton shared. “They’ve leaned on us through grief, anxiety, and uncertainty. They’ve celebrated milestones big and small. And through it all, they’ve learned that they are not alone.”
From leadership workshops to life skills, from drug prevention to conversations about trauma and boundaries, PAL is shaping resilient, thoughtful, and empowered youth across Riverside County.
“This recognition isn’t just for us,” Hamilton added. “It belongs to the seventh grader who stood up to speak for the first time. To the high schooler who came back as a mentor. To the officer who volunteers every week even after a long shift. PAL is what happens when we show up—for each other, and for the future.”
Get Involved:
We’re currently accepting new mentees ages 7–17, volunteer mentors, and Camp HOPE counselors (ages 18–24) for our newly launched summer camp program supporting youth impacted by trauma.
Sign up or learn more at: www.safefjc.org or email pal@safefamiliesca.org
