SUNDAY CIRCLE
Sunday Circle is a weekly volunteer opportunity. This program enables parents to leave their child with special needs in the hands of loving teen volunteers and qualified professionals for two hours of fun, entertainment, creativity, and social interaction. With numerous activities on offer, including music, sports, bounce house and facilitated sensory play, Sunday Circle is a real favorite!
Volunteers: Grades 7-12 | 1:00 - 3:30pm
Asphalt Green (Murphy Center) - 555 East 90th St, 10128
17 Sessions (Oct 2, 23, 30, Nov 13, 20, Dec 4, 11, Jan 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26, Mar 12, 19, 26, Apr 23, 30)
FRIENDS @ HOME
This weekly program facilitates quality time between teen volunteers and children with special needs in the comfort of their own homes. Each week, two volunteers visit their special friend, offering companionship, laughter, and fun. In exchange, the teen volunteers learn the value of friendship and experience firsthand the power of giving. Friends @ Home will be taking place in-person or over Zoom, at your preference.
Volunteers: Grade 9+ | Time: Customized to your schedule
TEEN SCENE
This club gives teens with special needs the opportunity to socialize and have fun in a safe and relaxed environment alongside supportive & engaging teen volunteers. (Formerly known as Teens on the Town)
Volunteers: Grades 11-12
Sundays, 1:00-3:30pm
Meeting at Asphalt Green (Murphy Center) - 555 East 90th St, 10128
17 Sessions (Oct 2, 23, 30, Nov 13, 20, Dec 4, 11, Jan 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26, Mar 12, 19, 26, Apr 23, 30)
VIRTUAL TEEN Club
A weekly virtual club on Zoom for teens with special needs and Ramaz high school volunteers. Activities will include virtual games, music, movement, foodie fun & more.
Ramaz high school students only
Mondays, 7:30-8:30pm on Zoom
DAY CAMPS
At Friendship Circle Day Camp, kids of all abilities have their school breaks transformed into a fun-filled camp experience! Packed with daily field trips, art, music, sports, special performances and more, FC day camp is an experience like no other.
Volunteers: Grade 7+
Friendship Circle hosts Day Camps throughout the year:
Thanksgiving Day Camp: November 24, 2022
Winter Camp: December 26, 2022
Presidents' Week Camp: February 20-21, 2023
Summer Camp: August 28 - September 1, 2023
@ Chabad UES 419 East 77th Street
All new volunteers must complete an application process before signing up to volunteer at camp. If this is your first time volunteering at Friendship Circle UES, please click here to begin the application process.
THE CARE PROJECT
Each month Friendship Circle sends themed packages to families of kids with special needs to brighten their day and let them know that they are not alone. The whole family is invited to volunteer and join our grand packaging and delivering event. Mom, Dad, sisters and brothers are invited to join the fun!
December - Chanukah gifts
February - Purim care project
March/April - Passover care project
JEWISH HOLIDAYS
Throughout the year Friendship Circle provides family holiday inspiration and fun! Celebrate Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim and more. At FC holiday programs children, siblings, parents and volunteers come together to share memorable holiday experiences that will leave a lasting impression!
FRIENDSHIP WALK
The highlight of our year! Join thousands from across the NYC community in a tremendous display of pride and unity as we walk through the streets of the Upper East Side raising awareness and funds for children, teens and young adults with special needs. All funds raised benefit Friendship Circle of the Upper East Side!
Date: May 21, 2023
Location: East 77th Street between 1st & York Aves
All Ages | Open to the Public