As a parent, you see your child’s potential better than anyone.
Learn how Jewish Big Pals can enhance their life.
Jewish Big Pals is a unique mentoring program for Jewish children, 2nd grade through high school, who are being raised in a variety of family situations—often by single parents, grandparents, or legal guardians. Big and Little Pals aim to get together twice a month to do what Little Pals find fun and interesting—whether arts and crafts or throwing a football at the beach.
Part role model, part friend, Big Pals are there to support kids on life’s most important journey—growing up.
What You Can Expect
Through the interview process, our staff work to ensure that every match is a good fit for the participants.
A Collaborative Process
Program staff match Big and Little Pals based on a thorough screening process that takes into account availability, geography, family dynamics, and shared interests. Big Pals are required to provide personal references and go through a rigorous background and security check. At sign-up, all participants commit to the program for a minimum of one year.
Ongoing Support
JFS staff support matches with regular check-ins, training, and meetings. Group events for the matches are planned to engage in community service, and connect to the Jewish community.
Lots of Fun
Matches meet twice a month for one-on-one outings. Jewish Holiday gatherings, group Padres tickets, community-service days, and other opportunities are planned throughout the year for Big and Little Pals to get together.
Positive Outcomes
A BigPal is a safe, trusting role model that helps their Little Pal build self-confidence, self-esteem, and healthy habits. Studies show that children with adult mentors are more confident, and are more likely to achieve their full potential. Program participants have found that involvement in JFS BigPals had a positive impact on the family as a whole.
BigPals Gallery
Take the Next Step
If your child is interested in becoming a Little Pal, call us at (858) 637‑3056. We’re here to answer your questions and help you get started.
To help prevent the infection and spread of COVID-19, JFS requires all program participants and volunteers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
“BigPals is an amazing program that is much more than donating a few hours of one’s time to a kid in need. The program is a life-changer. It has changed both my Little Pal and my life for the better. We have become much more than just ‘Pals’. We are like family.”
Volunteer to Be A Big Pal
You Can Make a Big Difference in a Child’s Life
Childhood can be a time of many challenges. Big Pals are caring Jewish adults who mentor children, 2nd grade through high school, from non-traditional or single-parent families. Big Pals engage their Little Pals in a mentoring relationship that can change their perspective on the world—and make a big impact on both their lives! If you’re curious about becoming a mentor, start the process by filling out an application online, or give our Volunteer Engagement team a call at (858) 637-3050.
