Community and Collaboration at Harlem’s Field of Dreams

The New York City Police Foundation was proud to join fellow city agencies and community partners at the opening of the new “Harlem Field of Dreams,” a transformed athletic complex at Brigadier General Charles Young Playground.

Named in honor of the pioneering U.S. Army officer, the revitalized space stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaborative policing, community investment, and shared commitment.

This reimagined athletic complex provides a safe, high-quality environment where young people can play, grow, and thrive while also fostering positive relationships between youth and law enforcement. The Police Foundation is honored not only to support the transformation of this space, but also to help ensure its care and sustainability for years to come, so it can continue to serve the Harlem community well into the future.

The project was made possible through approximately $7.5 million in law enforcement asset forfeiture funds from the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program, in partnership with the New York City Police Department and the New York City Police Foundation.

Additional support came from a group of partners, including former New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia’s PitCCh In Foundation, Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players’ Association Youth Development Fund, the NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, the Manhattan Borough President’s Office, and the New York City Council.

Together, these partnerships reflect a shared belief that strong communities are built through opportunity, trust, and investment. The Harlem Field of Dreams is more than a playground, it is a symbol of what’s possible when public and private partners come together to Build a Safer City Together.