jewish bigpals

Jewish BIGPals matches Jewish adult mentors with Jewish children from single-parent or non-traditional families. Mentors provide friendship, companionship, and life-enriching experiences to the children they mentor, enhancing their growth and development and helping them achieve their full potential. Big Pals support the children in facing life transitions and help them develop positive self-images, new behaviors, and coping skills.

Learn More About...
How the program works
Getting a Big Pal
Being a Big Pal
Upcoming Events

How Does it Work?
Big Pals are carefully screened, trained, and supervised by our professional staff. It is our job to create custom matches that meet the needs of both volunteer and child. We ask that Big and Little Pals commit to being matched for a minimum of one year, and that each month they plan to spend 8-10 hours (two outings) together, engaging in recreational, educational, and community activities. Throughout the year the program plans fun Jewish holiday celebrations and social activities, bringing together all Big and Little Pals. Past events have included a Summer Beach Party, a nature hike in Mission Gorge State Park, a trip to the Padres game, and much more.

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Getting a Big Pal
Childhood can be a time of many challenges. Matching your child with a Jewish Big Pal will help them form a lasting, supportive relationship on the journey to adulthood. Give your child the gift of a lifetime—friendship.

Studies show children with adult mentors are more confident, do better in school, and have better relationships with their families. Just a few hours a month with a Big Pal can have an impact that lasts forever. Enroll your child today, and see the difference tomorrow.

To enroll your child in the Jewish BIGPals program, call us at (858) 637-3090.

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Being a Big Pal
Who Mentored You? Each one of us has someone special we remember—someone who helped us become who we are today. You can be that special someone to a child who needs you. Be a Big Pal and become a role model, a confidant, a friend.

There are more than 4,600 Jewish single parent families in San Diego. Many of the children from these families have been through a divorce, death, or abandonment. You could be the friend they have been waiting for.

We’ll match you with a Jewish 6-16 year-old from a single parent or non-traditional family. You’ll meet twice a month to enjoy fun activities you both enjoy, like building a model boat together, or cooking dinner together.

To apply, interested Big Pals must complete an application, including three references, and complete a screening process and be fingerprinted. Big Pals must have their own car and provide a full DMV report.

Call today to make a difference in the life of child who needs you.

“I learned more from my Little Pal than
I ever hoped that I could teach him.”  -Big Pal

To become a Jewish BIGPals, call our volunteer department at (858) 637-3050. Download an application>>

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Upcoming Events

Jewish BIGPals Information Night
Tuesday, October 12, 2010 • 6:00–7:00pm
Turk Family Center • 8804 Balboa Ave. • San Diego, CA 92123
Interested in becoming a Jewish Big Pal? You are invited to attend a Jewish BIGPals Information Night and learn more about volunteering with the program.
Mentors are just ordinary people, but their commitment to making a difference makes them everyday heroes—transforming lives and transforming our community. You can be a hero too. Just a few hours a couple of times a month can make a big difference in a child's life.

All interested volunteers age 19 and up are invited to attend this event. Please RSVP by October 18 by calling (858) 637-3371.

For more information contact (858) 637-3090 or email.

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