In a bold new effort to empower youth and foster stronger relationships between young people and law enforcement, the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League (PAL) and the Joe Hand Boxing Gym officially launched a collaborative youth boxing program this week.
Unveiled during a community event at the state-of-the-art Joe Hand Boxing Gym in Feasterville, the initiative aims to provide a structured, supportive environment where Bucks County youth can build discipline, confidence, and self-esteem—while engaging positively with sheriff’s deputies and community mentors.
“This youth program is more than just learning a sport—it’s about building character, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating a safe space where young people can thrive and interact positively with law enforcement officers,” said Bucks County Sheriff Fred Harran. “The creation and successful launch of the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL program is a testament to our dedication to investing in the future of our youth and strengthening community ties throughout the county.”
The boxing program marks the first initiative of the newly formed Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL, which operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is funded entirely without taxpayer dollars. Key support comes from local partners, including the Penn Community Bank Foundation.
The Joe Hand Boxing Gym, founded by retired Philadelphia police detective and legendary boxing promoter Joe Hand Sr., has a longstanding tradition of using boxing as a tool for community uplift. Since relocating to a new 6,000-square-foot facility in 2020, the gym has broadened its outreach to serve individuals with Parkinson’s disease, children with special needs, and now local teens through this PAL partnership.
“For decades, the Joe Hand Boxing Gym has been a sanctuary for young people, instilling values that extend far beyond the ring,” said Joe Hand Jr. “Partnering with the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL allows us to expand our reach and offer this vital program to more youth in Bucks County. We believe in the transformative power of boxing to teach discipline, respect, and resilience.”
Joe Hand Sr. was a Philadelphia police officer who became a charter member of Cloverlay Corporation in 1967, the organization that helped guide Joe Frazier to the heavyweight championship. He was also an innovator in pay-per-view sports on closed-circuit TV.
The co-ed PAL boxing program is open to youth ages 11–17 and began offering sessions earlier this month. Classes are held twice weekly and are capped at 15 participants per session to ensure personalized instruction and skill development in a safe, non-contact or controlled-contact environment.
The program launch was celebrated by community leaders, public officials, and families, all expressing support for an initiative that brings law enforcement and youth together in a setting focused on growth and mutual respect.
For more information about the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL program, visit [official website link].
About the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office
Under the leadership of Sheriff Frederick A. Harran, the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office serves more than 630,000 residents with a team of 95 professionals. Its responsibilities include court security, warrant execution, civil process, gun permit administration, and more. With a focus on community engagement, the office partners with 39 local police departments as well as state and federal agencies to ensure public safety around the clock.
About the Joe Hand Boxing Gym
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded nearly 30 years ago, the Joe Hand Boxing Gym provides boxing and fitness programs for individuals of all ages and abilities. From helping children with special needs to empowering those living with Parkinson’s disease, the gym remains a vital resource for the community. To learn more, visit JoeHandGym.com.