Lauren Gibeault
Marketing & Recruitment Manager
Like many organizations, PALS Programs faced its share of challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rebuilding momentum after a global pause required resilience, creativity, and a strong community to lean on. In 2022, we reemerged into in-person programming, with only about 75% of our volunteer and peer spaces filled — a stark contrast to the energy and engagement we were used to. But today, just three years later, we’re proud to share that we’re operating at 96.5% enrollment already for Summer 2025 — and continuing to climb.
So what’s made the difference? One word: Partnerships.
Colleges, high schools, and student clubs across the country have become vital allies in bringing the PALS mission of inspiring a world of belonging to life. These partnerships have gone beyond simply helping us recruit — though they’ve done that remarkably well — and evolved into deep, lasting relationships that fuel our work in so many ways: from fundraising and student internships to inclusive education initiatives and year-round advocacy.
One of the most inspiring trends we’ve seen? When educators who love the PALS mission change roles or schools, and bring that passion with them. Dean of Student Life, Karen Chambers is a perfect example. After transitioning to a new position, she still made sure to keep PALS close — encouraging nearly 40 students to apply to volunteer last season. Karen doesn’t just spread awareness — she carries our mission into the everyday lives of the students she mentors.
Another powerful partnership is now in its second year with Brother Rice High School in the Chicago suburbs. Led by teacher Matthew Prunckle, Brother Rice students have joined PALS for a week of programming, but their involvement didn’t stop there. Matthew launched an inclusive education initiative called Mount Sion, where students with and without disabilities are paired together during the school day. Not only are students coming to PALS as Peer Volunteers, but Partners and Leads are emerging from the Brother Rice community as well. Matthew had the opportunity to visit PALS on-site in Summer 2023, where he witnessed his students "in action." He shared this reflection:
“Seeing our students in action as peers at PALS was incredibly moving. It was beautiful to witness peers and partners giving so much to each other. There was no doubt that the experience—and the new friendships formed—had a transformative impact. After camp, each of our boys shared that their biggest takeaway was the importance of being more comfortable in their own skin. They felt empowered at PALS to be themselves and loved getting to know everyone’s true self.”
In Annapolis, Maryland, Lindsey Seynhaeve at Indian Creek High School leads the Eagles with a Purpose service learning club, inspiring students to get involved in causes that make a difference. Her encouragement has led many students to PALS — and many more to a lifelong commitment to inclusion and giving back.
These partnerships are so much more than just recruitment channels. They represent people — educators, mentors, and students — who live the PALS mission far beyond a single week at camp. They advocate for inclusion in their schools, foster connection in their communities, and bring the spirit of PALS into every corner of their lives.
To all our partners: thank you. PALS would not be where it is today without your belief, your advocacy, and your action. Our growth season after season is powered by you.
Do you know a teacher, school, or community group who should be connected with PALS? We’d love to meet them. Email us at support@palsprograms.org—and let’s keep building a world of belonging together.