PAL Program

PAL is the only program in Atlanta providing mentorship services to Jewish children ages 5-17 (Little PALs), from Jewish young professionals (Big PALs). PAL has made over 1,000 meaningful matches since its inception in 1986, and was designed to foster community, instill Jewish pride, and build a strong connection between mentors and their matches.

Part-role model, part-friend, Big PALs are there to support kids on life’s most important journey – growing up.

Testimonials

"I have a lot of fun! I get to do really fun things that I don’t get to do on a normal basis. We do a lot of good activities and I listen to new bands every time we’re in the car!"

- Little PAL, Age 9

"I like having interesting conversations with my big PAL. And I like all the fun activities we do together!"

- Little PAL, Age 9

"It feels so good to have a PAL. He's more than a friend - he's a mature adult who can drive and we have fun together! He's a great role model as I am growing up. My Big PAL helps me make good choices as I'm deciding who I want to be."

- Little PAL, Age 15

"My children have lifelong mentors and friends in their Big PALs. I love that they each have a special someone outside of daily life who they can have fun with and confide in. I'm so grateful for the love and support our whole family receives from this amazing program. Thank you JF&CS!"

- Mother of Little PALs

"My twin 10-year-old sons have been in the PAL program for three years now. I can't accurately express in mere words the positive impact the PAL program has made on the boys and our family. My boys spend a lot of time together, and also have to share a lot of things in life. Since I'm a single mother, they rarely get a large chunk of time for 1:1 attention from me or any other adult. Seeing the excitement and joy on their faces when they have scheduled time with their PALs, when their PALs come to pick them up, when they come back from their adventures... it's everything. When one boy is with their PAL, that allows me to have individual time with the other. And on the occasions that both boys are with their PALs at the same time, what a treat for momma! The boys have learned new skills like woodworking and baseball throwing from their PALS. They get to celebrate Jewish holidays with their PALS. They have been given the opportunity to have consistent, positive adult influences in their lives whom they can learn from, attend Jewish events with, and grow as individuals. It's been an extremely positive experience for us all!"

- Mother of Little PALs

Q&A

What is the PAL Program?

The PAL Program is Atlanta’s only Jewish Big Brother/Big Sister mentorship program. Founded by Archie Soloman and Ellen Moore in 1986, PAL was created to support Jewish children growing up in a variety of nontraditional family situations such as single-parent households, being raised by grandparents, legal guardians, or siblings, LGBTQ+ families, siblings of children with developmental disabilities etc. Mentorship can be helpful in a variety of situations, and PAL is here to help.

Who are our mentors (“Big PALs”)

Big PALs come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, and are seeking a 1:1 volunteer opportunity. Big PALs must pass a series of background checks and complete training before being matched with a Little PAL.

Who qualifies as a Little PAL?

Little PALs are between the ages of 5-17. Little PALs come from a variety of homes or situations that might need extra support.

What is the Big PAL age limit?

Volunteers must be 21 and older, have a driver’s license and car insurance. The program matches Young Professionals between 24-39 years old to Little PALs.

How long is the time commitment to PAL?

The time commitment is one full year. However, most matches exceed this time because of how meaningful the PAL Program can be to both the mentor and mentee.

Is the PAL Program strictly Jewish?

Yes, the PAL Program solely matches Jewish mentors with Jewish mentees.

Who can make a referral to the PAL Program?

Parents, caregivers, clinical professionals, day schools, Temples and Synagogues.

My family is looking for more services, can JF&CS provide this?

Yes, JF&CS is here to support families on the journey of life! You can learn more about JF&CS Services here.

We got Matched! Now what?

The Pal Program Team, PAL family, and Big PAL will gather at the Little PAL's home for a meaningful introductory meeting. Afterwards, the Big PAL and Little PAL's family will set up the first official outing - Let the friendship begin!