Education is the foundation of all PAL programs, and young people benefit from guidance, nurturing and counseling.

Educational Resource Centers
PAL’s Educational Resource Centers offer a safe space outside the formal structure of a classroom for children to enhance their educational experiences in individualized and creative approaches to learning. Educational programs promote social interaction, support the school curriculum and broaden horizons. Young people benefit from practical and enjoyable applications for science, math, literacy and art. Connections are made between classroom lessons and working toward a productive future.

Computer Literacy
Instructors supervise computer labs at all of the full-time centers, help youngsters with homework projects and teach basic computer skills. Young people receive training in word processing and graphic design. Teenagers are taught to use computers for employment searches, SAT preparation, college research and scholarship opportunities. Hundreds of teenagers have received training certificates, and adults are also assisted with computer literacy.

Adventure Based Learning
Through Adventure Based Learning, young people participate in one day or weekend projects. Youngsters attend skills-building sessions leading up to fun-filled experiences including camping, hiking, skiing, rock climbing, snowboarding, ice skating and canoe trips. These adventures develop communication skills, build trust and teach children to work as a team. A rock-climbing wall at the South Bronx Center provides additional challenges.

Hydroponic Farming
In the South Bronx, Harlem and Edward Byrne Centers, young people learn about Hydroponic Farming, in collaboration with Dr. Philson Warner and the Cornell University Extension Program. The hydroponic cells on the outdoor decks of these centers enable young people to grow plants, fruits and vegetables quickly and without soil. In addition to applying the principles of chemistry, math and biology, PAL youngsters learn observation and team-building skills. The goal is to support youthful entrepreneurship through growing, harvesting and selling produce. Young "farmers" have grown Chinese cabbage, lettuce, collards and sweet basil in this fascinating agricultural venture.

Forensic Science Investigations (FSI)
Forensic Science Investigations uses the excitement of crime solving to engage young people in the scientific process. Learning observation techniques, recording tools, how fingerprints are made, recovered and identified, making casts from tire prints or shoe prints, all capture the imagination – and help our young Sherlock Holmes’s catch the perp! This program works best when program designer Ret. Lt. Phil Romano, PAL’s NYPD Liaison Officers or other Police Officers drop in to demonstrate the applied Science. 

Astronomy
PAL’s two portable STARLAB planetariums allow young people at all the centers to learn basic astronomy and enjoy stargazing through fun, interactive activities. Activities include outlining constellations to viewing weather and ocean patterns. Not only are these delightful experiences for youngsters, but they develop math, geography and science skills as well.

Youth Forum
Each year, over 150 teenagers participate in PAL’s Youth Forum. The forum encourages spirited discussions in workshops, builds leadership in planning and implementation, and opens up a dialogue between public officials and teens through submitting reports and attending meetings. To design a forum that is meaningful to young adults, a Teen Committee participates in all stages of planning.