About Us

WHO WE ARE

The Friendship Circle is today's fastest growing Jewish organization servicing individuals with special needs, with over 80 independent chapters worldwide. 

Our Mission

UNITY.

The Friendship Circle Upper East Side is a vibrant community hub in NYC, bringing together Jewish people with special needs, their families and loving volunteers.

COMMUNITY.

Friendship Circle is built on the foundational belief that every soul has infinite value, and every person has a unique contribution to make to the world. 40+ tailor-made programs give kids, teens and adults of all abilities the opportunity to engage in social, recreational, educational, and Jewish life experiences.

OPPORTUNITY.

At the heart of Friendship Circle is the vision that together we can create a community that celebrates all of its diverse members and empowers everyone to reach their full divine potential.

Friendship Circle programs are open to people of all abilities.

Our Vision

We envision a community in New York City where all people with special needs and their families experience acceptance, inclusion and friendship. We picture all facets of the Jewish community coming together as one supportive and united family. We see local teens and adults feeling a sense of connection to, and responsibility for, the greater Jewish community and taking leadership roles in changing the world for good.