Whether you are one of the many people already involved in The Friendship Circle or a newcomer, we invite you to take a look at the wonderful programs we have planned for this year. Some are old favorites and some are innovative new ideas to help families; all require every part of our circle to work together seamlessly. Volunteers, Families, Staff, and Supporters. We could not possibly do this all without each of you! At the Friendship Circle, we extend a loving hand of friendship to children with special needs and their families. We work to create a warm and accepting environment to form relationships that last a lifetime. Our network of hundreds of volunteers helps us offer a full range of social and Judaic programs for children, teens, and adults.

Here are 10 things to know about the Friendship Circle:

  1. It offers a home within our Jewish community for the special needs population where all are welcome regardless of affiliation.
  2. It is a place where every member is embraced and celebrated by peers.
  3. It is a place where kids, teens and young adults socialize in a safe setting with great friends, appropriate programming, and good food!
  4. It is a place where the focus is on the ability of each member, and not the “dis”ability that limits them.
  5. It is a mindset where we focus on what we have in common as opposed to what separates us.
  6. It is a place where one develops meaningful friendships that you never would have imagined.
  7. It is a forum for teens to take control and trend-set a world where inclusion and opportunity are really in place for all.
  8. It is an environment where leaders are developed.
  9. It is a haven for parents to meet fellow parents and share experiences and helpful tips.
  10. Lastly, Friendship Circle of Bergen County is one of 89 branches worldwide, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with special needs and their families. 

We invite you to look through the pages ahead and get a glimpse of what the Friendship Circle programs are all about!
Please join us and get involved! Together we can make a world of difference.

Sincerely,
Rabbi Moshe & Zeesy Grossbaum

We dedicate this publication to the inspiration behind everything we do, The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory.