Mission • Vision • The Friendship Circle Today
The Friendship Circle of Los Angeles is a D.B.A. of Friends Around, a non-profit 501(C)3 organization; Federal Tax ID# 20-3270890
The Friendship Circle's mission is to:
- To provide Jewish children who have special needs with a full range of social recreational and Judaic experiences
- To provide their parents with respite and support
- To enrich inspire and motivate Jewish teen through sharing of themselves with others
Our Vision
At the heart of all of the Friendship Circle’s programming is the belief that each and every individual can be a productive member of the community and benefit from the social support offered by one’s peers. Friendship, acceptance and a chance to participate in socially accepted bonding opportunities are critical to achieving this type of inclusive society.
The Friendship Circle aims to provide children and teenagers with special needs and their families with many of the social and recreational opportunities that are currently available to the general community. These experiences are essential building blocks for an individual to acquire confidence and self esteem and to ultimately lead a productive adult lifestyle.
We envision a world in which people with special needs and their families experience acceptance, inclusion and friendship as contributing members of society.
The Friendship Circle aims to create an environment for teens that will nurture and inspire them with meaning, purpose, and self-value; a sense of connection to and responsibility for the greater Jewish community through innovative and stimulating programs. We see this as essential to developing and producing the members and leaders of tomorrow’s Jewish community.
The Friendship Circle Today
The Friendship Circle’s wide array of innovative programming promotes a greater awareness and understanding of both the unique needs and gifts of those with special needs, and encourages respect and empathy for those facing difficult challenges.
The children and families benefit from home visits, recreational group programming, winter camps and athletic opportunities. Together with parents and siblings, children and teens with special needs celebrate the holidays with exciting, interactive programs that bring to life the spirit and richness of the Jewish traditions. The Volunteer Club offers meaningful educational and social events for the teen mentors.
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