Strengthen Communities

Strengthen Communities by Building Relationships and Trust Between the NYPD and Community Members,

Including Youth Across the Five Boroughs

The New York City Police Foundation has a long history of strengthening relationships between the NYPD and the communities it serves. Through mentorship, education, athletics, career development, and wellness initiatives, the Foundation supports programs that foster trust, engagement, and positive relationships between police officers and the public, particularly young people, across the five boroughs.

The NYPD OPTIONS Program, launched in partnership between the Police Foundation and the NYPD, has continued to evolve and expand since 2018. OPTIONS helps young people build leadership, decision-making, and career-readiness skills through mentorship, workshops, summer programs, and direct engagement with NYPD officers.

To date, more than 40,000 young people and hundreds of officers have participated in the program citywide.

Youth Flag Football Mentorship Program: Combines athletics, tutoring, and officer mentorship in Harlem, the Bronx, and Far Rockaway through a unique partnership with the New York Football Giants.

NYPD Youth Cricket League: Promotes teamwork, confidence, and discipline among hundreds of youth.

Harlem Field of Dreams: Transformed athletic complex at Brigadier General Charles Young Playground, developed with NY/NJ HIDTA and community partners.

NYPD Prom Impact: Provides formal wear to high school seniors, removing financial and emotional barriers to prom night.

Camping in the Park & Harmony Picnic: Summer events bringing officers and families together.

NYPD Sleigh Ride Program: Thousands of holiday toys distributed to families across the city.

Thanksgiving Meal Deliveries: More than 3,000 families served across all five boroughs.

Community Partner Program: The Foundation helped create the program, connecting 650 community leaders citywide with local officers to strengthen neighborhood relationships and improve community engagement.

127 Penn NYPD Community Center: The Foundation funded the center in East New York, expanding recreational, social, and educational services while strengthening police-community relations.

Law Enforcement Explorers Program: Lead Leadership development, team building, and career exploration for youth interested in public service – as well as Explorers Summer Camp

Back to School Backpack Giveaway: Sponsored by the Foundation, each year the NYPD kicks off the school year with a giveaway.

SYEP Career Day at the NYPD Police Academy: 1,000+ Summer Youth Employment Program par participants explored public service and law enforcement careers; this inspiring event is returning in 2026.

Scholarships: The Foundation awards approximately $20,000 annually in scholarships, including the Lesandro Guzman-Feliz Memorial College Fund, honoring the Bronx teen and Law Enforcement Explorer whose life was tragically taken in 2018.