Linden’s Finest & Bravest Battle to Benefit Linden PAL

On Saturday, March 18th members of the Linden Police and Fire Department’s set aside their “rivalry” and took to the basketball court in a charity game to benefit the Linden PAL. In front of a crowd of children, families, and elected officials, the two teams went back and forth in just the kind of hard-fought game one would expect. Although tied at halftime, it was the Firemen who ultimately won the game 32-26.
“This event was about coming together and having a good time for our kids” said Linden PAL Director and Police Officer Danny Kuczynski. “It is just one example of how the PAL works to build relationships among kids, emergency personnel, and the community in a positive setting.”
The Linden Police Athletic League is a nonprofit organization started in 1952. It operates year round to give children ages 5-13 an opportunity to play basketball, T-ball, baseball, volleyball, and flag-football in a safe and supportive environment. Aside from Kuczynski the organization is run completely by volunteers, and Kuczynski credits them with the organization’s success. “We could never do this without them” he said “They give so much of their time, and often times money, to these kids without expecting anything in return.”
This game is the latest installment in the “Battle of the Badges” events hosted by the PAL. The events began with a flag football game started by Kuczynski xx years ago and has grown to include a softball game and basketball game. “We are happy to provide an opportunity for the kids to get to know our Emergency Responders in a positive and fun way” said Kuczynski.
For more information about the Linden PAL, including how to volunteer or donate, please follow them on Facebook and Instagram.