Horwitz-Zusman Child & Family Center
The PAL Program
Congrats to 2024 Joel Libowsky Big PAL of the Year, Nate Rubin
Nate with Little PAL Josh at Nate's wedding
PAL, Atlanta’s only Jewish Big Brother/Big Sister Program
The PAL Program is Atlanta's only Jewish Big Brother/Big Sister Program for children ages 5-17, who are being raised in a variety of family situations—often by single parents, grandparents, legal guardians, or they may have siblings with developmental disabilities. Many families can benefit from a positive role model and friend to help their children.
Big and Little PALs get together twice a month to do what Little PALS find fun and interesting – whether that is arts and crafts or throwing a football at the park.
Part-role model, part-friend, Big PALS are there to support kids on life’s most important journey – growing up.
PAL Match Stories: Andy & Jonah: See the incredible bond Andy & Jonah share through the PAL Program.
Congratulations Jason Zutty for earning the 2022 Joel Libowsky Big PAL of the Year Award.
Who Are Big PALS?
A Big PAL is a caring, Jewish, adult volunteer who mentors a child to help him/her grow and develop in new ways. The fun, unconditional friendship that develops between a Big PAL and a Little PAL builds confidence, self-esteem and a Jewish identity. You can make a difference and make a friend you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Who Are Little PALS?
Little PALS are Jewish children between the ages of 5 and 17 who could benefit from a Jewish adult mentor.
Interested in becoming a Big PAL?
What You Can Expect
Through the interview process, our staff work to ensure that every match is a good fit for all participants.
PAL 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
The PAL Coordinator supports matches with regular check-ins, training, and meetings.
Lots of Fun
In addition to Matches getting together at least twice a month for one-on-one time, special events are planned throughout the year for Bigs, Littles and families. Shabbat dinner, Hanukkah party, mitzvah day, and free tickets for sporting and cultural events.
Positive Outcomes
National studies have shown that mentoring programs can help enrich the lives of children and strengthen their families. These benefits include improving grades, feeling greater success and accomplishment, engaging in safer behavior and forming stronger relationships. Participation in PAL enhances the lives of children, families and volunteers
Larry and Russell: The PAL Program connected Larry and Russell, who are still friends after 30+ years.
Contact our PAL and Young Professional Manager, Sarah Bernstein, at or 770.677.9390 to learn more or sign up today here to get involved.
Recent PAL Stories
Havinagala Recap + Even More for Young Professionals at JF&CS
February 21, 2024
2024 Big PAL of the Year: Nate Rubin
January 04, 2024
November 22, 2023
Havinagala a Hit at Punch Bowl Social
February 10, 2023
Havinagala Brings Young Professionals Together for Fun and Fundraising at Punch Bowl Social
January 09, 2023
Sam Perlman, 2023 Big PAL of the Year
December 30, 2022
Testimonials
The PAL Program gave me one of the best people there is in this world. She has helped me through some pretty tough times, and stood by me when anyone else would split, not to look back anytime soon. She has been a breath of fresh air, where there is only smog. Our friendship is real. This was one of my concerns in the beginning. I wondered if she felt obligated to be friends with me. Maybe that is how it began, however our friendship has advanced beyond that. She has helped me to grow, mature, to feel secure in myself and my actions.My PAL has never judged me or made me feel insecure for being myself, instead she has accepted me with open arms. Building me up, rather than tearing me down. Whether we are painting pottery and eating delicious cookies or studying, our time spent together always feels like time well-spent. I would tell anyone who is looking into this program, that this is an important and worthy program.
Carson, 16
If you truly want to see a program that has made a significant difference in a little boy’s life, look no further than this program. What has emerged from his relationship with his Big PAL is a child who is more confident, more self-assured, and more enthusiastic about his life.
Debra, Parent of Little PAL
My Big PAL is funny and makes me happy to see him every time we get together. I like hanging out with him, and so do all of the other kids and their PALs. We do cool things like Wacky Olympics and bowling. My Big PAL really cares about me.
Little PAL
My Little PAL taught me what it is like to be very young again (I had forgotten!).
Elaine, Big PAL
The PALS for my kids are AWESOME! My kids really adore Nate and Rachel. Josh had his bar mitzvah a year ago. Nate called every week on a designated day and time about two months leading up to the big day so that Josh could recite his haftorah on the phone. I really appreciate that Nate went above and beyond to help Josh with this. Rachel has been a great ear for my Rachel. I am indeed very grateful to the PALS and to the program.
Nancy, Mother of Little PAL
PAL and Young Professional Manager
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