New York State Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Wheatley Heights) recently met with more than a dozen summer youth employees from the Suffolk County Police Athletic League (PAL) where she answered questions and discussed her various experiences as a state legislator. The meeting was facilitated and moderated by Suffolk County Police Officer and PAL Coordinator Ed Groce, a 17-year veteran of the department who has worked in its Community Relations Bureau since 2012.

“I am thankful to have had the opportunity to meet with these bright young individuals who are making our local communities so proud as employees within the Suffolk PAL this summer,” said Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre. “These students had fantastic questions and discussion points which covered a wide range of topics including current events impacting police and community relations, as well as my experience as a woman of color and as a state legislator. I am excited to see what the future holds for each of these students, and I thank Officer Groce for organizing this opportunity and for his overall leadership of this wonderful program.”

“Meeting with Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre was a unique opportunity for the more than a dozen Police Athletic League summer employees,” said Suffolk County Police Officer Ed Groce. “The students gained insight into the challenges and rewards of being an elected official and were reminded of the importance of staying in school and taking advantage of opportunities presented to them.”

The Suffolk County PAL serves the Suffolk Community by providing local youth with an abundance of programs such as sport leagues, mentorship opportunities and other various programs. Since taking office in 2015, Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre has made it a priority to continue engaging with local youth and providing them with opportunities to learn about the legislative process as well as civic engagement.