Program Contact Name:  Mark Cherny
Address:  21300 Coleman Blvd.
Boca Raton, Fl. 33428
Phone:  561-852-3333
Fax.  561-852-3332
E-mail:  MarkC@bocafed.org
Web Site:  www.ruthralesjfs.org

Program Offered:
This is a non-sectarian program in which adult mentors (21 plus) are matched, one on one, with children (6-17) from single parent families.  The major goal of the program is to provide the child with a positive role model.

Population Served:
The youth in this program are 6 - 17 years old and come from single parent families.  The youth reside in Boca Raton, Delray Beach or Highland Beach.

Mentor Responsibilities:
Minimum age for volunteers is 21.  Initial training is provided prior to the match.  On-going training is provided during the match through bi-monthly group meetings with other volunteers and individual contact with the Program Coordinator.  The Big Pal and Little Pal get together on weekends, after school and holidays.  The Big Pal makes arrangements with the parent, picks up the child at his/her house and returns the child to his/her house after the activity.  Activities vary and can be fun, educational or both. Examples are going to the beach, the movies, the playground and/or museums.

Time Commitment:
The minimum requirement is one year.  However, many relationships continue until the mentee goes to college.  Mentor and mentee meet every week or every other week for an average of 3 hours.