When DSAL was founded, there were very few positive options for recreation or activities for kids after school in the Ashland/Cherryland neighborhoods. As we connected with youth and families, we realized the need to address deeper issues, like unemployment, lack of investment in the unincorporated areas, and social and political disconnection. We now see DSAL’s mission in a larger framework of social equity, community-led economic empowerment, and creative placemaking: creating a profound change in how law enforcement serves the community. We operate sports and fitness programs, engage the community in creative placemaking, and run Dig Deep Farms, a social enterprise that offers employment and education linkages to reentry clients and young people at risk, and are developing a Food Hub to create jobs and incubate new food-related businesses. We are also part of a multi-year public safety initiative focusing on community policing, reentry, and economic development. 

Thank you so much for considering a donation to DSAL.  DSAL and ACSO are doing work that can shift the direction of law enforcement in this country, and we appreciate your contribution.