jewish bigpals Make a new friend just by being you
Childhood can be a time of many challenges. Big Pals mentor children ages 6-16 and help them develop self-esteem, Jewish identity, and lasting relationships that can change their perspective on the world—and make a big impact in their lives.
Who are Big Pals? A Big Pal is a caring adult, age 19 and older, who has a one-on-one relationship with a child. Big Pals commit to meeting with their Little Pals twice a month for a few hours, for at least a year, to enjoy all the things they normally enjoy doing—whether it’s hanging out at the beach, going for a walk, cooking, watching movies, or playing sports.
Who are Little Pals? Little Pals are Jewish children ages 6-16 from non-traditional or single-parent families. Each Little Pal is matched with a Big Pal who is carefully screened, trained, and supervised by the professional staff at JFS.
Big and Little Pals commit to being matched for a minimum of one year, and each month they enjoy two outings together, engaging in recreational, educational, and community activities. Throughout the year, all Big and Little Pals come together at organized events like Jewish holiday celebrations and social activities. 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.
Why Match Your Child With a Big Pal? Matching your child with a Jewish Big Pal can help them form a lasting, supportive relationship on the journey to adulthood. 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! Give us a call at (858) 637-3090.
Why Should You Become a Big Pal? 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. By spending time with your Little Pal—twice a month for a few hours—you can change his or her outlook and be a much needed friend. And you never know—your Little Pal might change your life, too.
Go for a walk. BBQ together. See a movie. Hang out at the beach. Shoot some hoops. Or just give some encouragement and advice. However you normally spend your time, chances are you’ll have even more fun with your Little Pal—and you’ll be making a big impact.
To apply, interested Big Pals must complete an application, including three references, and complete a screening process and be fingerprinted. Big Pals must also have their own car and provide a full DMV report. Call (858) 637-3371 today to make a difference in the life of child who needs you.
Thinking about becoming a Big Pal or Little Pal? Watch this video to see interviews with program participants and how it’s impacted their life. Thank you to Kristine Diekman, Austin Hill, Phil Levine, and Shayna Benavidez of Cal State University San Marcos for producing this video.
Childhood can be a time of many challenges. Big Pals mentor children ages 6-16 and help them develop self-esteem, Jewish identity, and lasting relationships that can change their perspective on the world—and make a big impact in their lives.
