(July 2, 2025)—Recently, more than 700 youth from across Atlanta gathered today at the new Atlanta Public Safety Training Center (PSTC) for the 6th Annual @Promise Field Day, marking the first time the event has been held at the state-of-the-art facility.
The vibrant celebration brought together participants from a strong network of Atlanta-based youth organizations, including @Promise, YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta, the City of Atlanta’s Teen Leaders Academy and Raising Expectations.
Throughout the day, young attendees enjoyed an array of activities, ranging from inflatable games and relay races to caricature art, mural coloring, line dancing and various sports. The field buzzed with energy, laughter, and music, capturing the spirit of connection and joy at the heart of the event.
Field Day also featured remarks from some of Atlanta’s top public safety and community leaders, including Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and APF CEO Dave Wilkinson. Each emphasized the city’s shared commitment to youth empowerment and public trust.
“@Promise Field Day is all about creating meaningful connections,” said Wilkinson. “It’s an opportunity for our youth to engage with law enforcement and business leaders in a fun, supportive environment, helping to build trust, foster mentorship, and show what’s possible when the community comes together.”
Sponsors QuikTrip and Chick-fil-A played a hands-on role in creating that welcoming atmosphere, providing meals, giving out souvenirs and volunteering on the ground to keep the momentum going all day long.
Leaders also underscored the importance of ensuring that the PSTC serves as a shared community asset, not just a space for training, but a place for families, youth and neighbors to gather, explore and enjoy.
“We get to come out here and enjoy public safety and enjoy the grounds,” said Mayor Dickens. “Be able to see the horses, the ponds, the lakes, the trails, and enjoy this wonderful space.”
For many youth, the event felt personal, a reminder that their well-being and success matter.
“We feel important, if that makes sense,” said @Promise participant Jaylynn Williams. “If you make an event for us to have fun and meet new people, then it means you care about the children.”
Since its launch in 2017, the @Promise initiative has grown into a nationally recognized model for youth crime prevention and diversion, with three full-service centers operating across Atlanta and a fourth location set to open in 2026. Hosting this year’s Field Day at the new training center underscored the city’s commitment to transparency and inclusion in public safety spaces.
As the @Promise initiative continues to expand, the message remains clear: real public safety starts with the youth community. And when youth, law enforcement, business leaders and nonprofits work together, brighter futures come into reach.
To learn more about the @Promise initiative or how to get involved, visit atpromisecenters.org.
Written by APF Communications Intern, Christiana C.
