The following nomination letter was written by Sharla Beverly, City Council member in South Salt Lake:
Jerry Silva started working for the South Salt Lake Police Department in 1997. He grew up in this area and wanted to help his community. He’s the reason why our Police Athletic League is now a national model.
The South Salt Lake PAL was started by Officer Robbin Wilkins in 1998. Jerry participated with PAL very early on, but PAL took a hiatus between 2002 – 2006 due to lack of support from the city administration. During that time, Jerry continued to engage with the kids in the community whenever possible, to keep the notion of PAL floating.
In 2006, PAL officially started up again because of Jerry’s passion. Then in 2010, the PAL Pete Suazo Boxing Program began with the opening of the Central Park Community Center. The center has had high profile guests including Evander Holyfield and tournaments featuring youth fighters from all over the west. Jerry Silva is the real deal! Jerry Silvia is a champion for SSL youth! His positive impact upon those he mentors is beyond measure. Jerry Silvia spends countless personal hours growing the SSL PAL program including constant networking.
Jerry Silvia’s years of service in SSL reflect his deep beliefs in community policing. He is an integral part of our community and our city is a better place because of him.