Our Programs

Our Mission

Why support us?

 

Having a child with special needs means very little “off time” for his parents, especially on the weekends. Friendship Circle has changed that.

"Just knowing that he is in good, safe hands for an hour to an hour and a half every Sunday has breathed a breath of fresh air into our lives." - Miriam Esther Weiner, Friendship Circle Parent

While it is an invaluable privilege, caring for someone with special needs can take an enormous toll on parents, siblings, and even grandparents. With this in mind, we created Sibling Circles, Family Days, and other programming, specifically geared to supporting families of children with special needs.

"Ben has no friends. His volunteers are his only friends. They come every week and play monopoly with him. " -Sue Katzen, Parent

Our innovative youth programs and activities are designed to offer children with special needs the opportunity to make new friends and learn important life skills. Under the gentle guidance of teen and adult volunteers, the children enjoy arts & crafts, music therapy, swimming, sports and more.

YAD offers young adults with special needs an opportunity to have fun and hang out with friends in a comfortable and safe environment. Through a series of community service-oriented activities, participants learn the satisfaction of giving back while gaining vital social and vocational skills.

At the Friendship Circle, we believe that teens can make a huge difference. Through innovative and stimulating programs, we have created an environment that encourages teens to recognize their true value, nurturing and inspiring our volunteers with a sense of responsibility for the greater Jewish community.

"Today my best bud said yes to go to semi with me, his reaction was priceless! I personally liked when he paraded with the poster around the cafeteria to show all of his friends! I can't wait for March to come:) What a magical day!" -Ilana Feldman, Friendship Circle Volunteer

Our Programs

Each week, teenage volunteers and their special friends spend an afternoon of excitement together enjoying arts & crafts, music therapy, circle time, sports and more under the gentle guidance of Lisa Klinger.

Teen Club

Sushi in the Sukkah

Chanukah Speed the Light

Cheesecake and Torah

Empowerment: From the perspective of a Mom of a Teen

Words from a Mom of a Special Friend

Horseback riding

Testimonials

• "This small "circle of friends" was a powerful reminder of how much good there is In the world. It was an extraordinary feeling to be part of, but more importantly, to witness this event. At the end of the day I went home filled with joy and hope." - Diane Sher, Director and Teacher at New Arts Studio, Sharon, MA

• "In my experience working with the Friendship Circle I watched both students and volunteers engage in art. I enjoyed watching everyone work on their artwork, gain confidence about their ability to be an artist, and enjoy the process. It has been an honor and pleasure to be part of the Friendship Circle.” - Michelle Katz, Artist and Art Educator

• “Friendship Circle would never be able to happen if not for the ever supporting community. It is so beautiful to see the community working together helping us help the community.” - Chanie Minkowitz, Director of Friendship Circle, Sharon, MA

• "I'm so so SOO lucky to call you my friend. Everyday spent with you is a day to remember. Whenever you tell me your latest jokes, or show me your newest piece of music, you always make me smile! You're the sweetest guy I know!" - Friendship Circle Volunteer

• “Making art will help me because I want to be an artist when I grow up.” -Samantha Cohen age 10

• "It was the most amazing night of my life.” -Experience with teen at Paint Bar

• "It was the most amazing experience of my life. It was just amazing. It was wild." - A Special Friend

Impacts

38 teenage volunteers

450+ Hours of Friendship

10 full-time and part-time staff members

13 programs throughout the year