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Circle Of Friends
The Circle of Friends is a volunteer organization that reaches out to children, teens and adults with special needs and involves them in a full spectrum of inclusive, social experiences.
Our innovative programming is designed to foster a relationship between children and teens with special needs and community teenage volunteers.
Description:
The Circle of Friends Programs:
Home with Friends: Children and teens with special needs are partnered with teenage volunteers who visit them weekly in their homes and establish meaningful, shared experiences. The volunteers are screened and receive training and orientation from professionals in the field of special education prior to their home visits.
Sunday Circle/Teen Scene: Once a month on Sundays throughout the school calendar year, our teenage volunteers and their friends spend two wonderful hours together. In a fun filled atmosphere, highlighting a seasonal holiday or theme, participants enjoy a wide variety of activities such as music, art, sports, snack, baking, cooking and story time. Professionals in the field of special education and therapists lead the activities. Parents receive a respite as their children engage in an afternoon of quality social and educational activities.
Tuesday Circle: Circle of Friends hosts a monthly program on Tuesday evenings for adults with disabilities. Participants are transported to and from their group residences and then join together with volunteers to socialize, enjoy music, dance, art, snack, games, cooking and baking.
Sibling Support Group: The Circle of Friends offers monthly sibling support groups. The group is lead by a family therapist and includes games, art, snack and discussion.
Community Awareness: The Circle of Friends hosts community awareness events and provides lecturers to educate the community on individuals with disabilities and respect of differences. This year Circle of Friends will host events geared towards school age children and their parents.
The Circle of Friends offers Special Programs for participants, volunteer recruitment events and volunteer training sessions and socials.
Additional programs being offered or currently under development include: winter/summer camp, birthday parties, Life Skills - Relationship Building Course and mother/daughter, father/son adult volunteer opportunities.
History:
The Circle of Friends was established in September 2004, by Beth Israel Synagogue located at 40 King Street Norwalk, CT 06851, a 501 (c) (3) organization to reach out to ALL children and teens with special needs in Fairfield County; and involves them in a full spectrum of inclusive, social experiences. The Circle of Friends reaches out to all faith communities and is non-sectarian.
Contact people:
Office fax number: (203) 831-8969
Address:
Web Site: http://www.circleoffriendsct.org
Directions:
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The Circle of Friends is located at 40 King Street, Norwalk off Strawberry Hill Avenue.
Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Westport Train Station,
Walk distance (in minutes): 20 minutes |
| Last updated on October 15, 2009 |
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