Police Athletic League’s Carlos Velazquez Named 2024 NonProfit Trailblazer By City & State, NY NonProfit Media

May 24, 2024

City & State and New York Nonprofit Media 2024 Nonprofit Trailblazers List recognizes the dedicated changemakers improving New York City and across the State. 

“Born and raised in East Harlem …”

Police Athletic League Executive Director Carlos Velazquez was among a prestigious list of honorees in the forefront of the nonprofit sector. Leaders were acknowledged for dedicating their careers and lives to making New York a better, safer place through adherence to the principles of charity, diversity, environmentalism, sustainability and governance. Born and raised in East Harlem, Carlos became PAL’s Executive Director in 2022.

“… addressing the needs of underserved youth and cultivating … relationships …”


The 2024 Nonprofit Trailblazers list honors a diverse group of visionary leaders who are carrying out critical work at mission-driven nonprofit organizations across New York. According to City & State:  Carlos Velazquez is an innovative leader forging significant community partnerships and standing side by side with New York City youth who are growing up in some of its toughest neighborhoods. In his 20-year career in public service, he has been dedicated to addressing the needs of underserved youth and cultivating strategic relationships with community partners and government agencies. 

“I am honored to be recognized on the City & State and New York Nonprofit Media 2024 Nonprofit Trailblazers List among these esteemed New Yorkers,” said Carlos Velazquez, Executive Director, Police Athletic League. “This award reflects the extraordinary work of the PAL staff and volunteers who remain committed to serving New York City’s youth who face unprecedented challenges.  Our communities are living through a pivotal time, and PAL will continue to be a safe place where youth can build relationships and emerge as leaders.”

Honorees were profiled in City & State Magazine on May 20th and honored at a celebration featuring keynote remarks by New York City Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar and Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park.


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Prior to joining PAL, Carlos was the Chief Program Officer for the Boys’ Club of New York. He has worked with many partners within the youth development, education, law enforcement and justice systems including NYPD, FDNY, Department of Youth and Community Development and the NYC District Attorney’s Office. 

He has a Master of Education from Bank Street College of Education and a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science from Syracuse University.

Founded in 1914, New York City’s Police Athletic League is a nonprofit organization that provides recreational, educational, cultural and social activities to 15,000 children and teens annually.

For more information, please visit www.palnyc.org.


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