The Friendship Circle of NJ’s Annual Banquet

WEST ORANGE, NJ [CHI] — “Why is this night different from all other nights?”

Throughout MetroWest many people are talking about the Friendship Circle Annual Banquet held on Saturday night, February 28 at the Westminster, as a night that stood out as different. “I go to so many charity events, but at the Friendship Circle Annual Banquet I surprised to find myself caught up in the middle of an inspiring event that will stand out for a long time to come”, describes one enthusiastic donor. And his thoughts and feelings are mirrored by many other attendees. “”Moving,” “inspirational,” “special” and “inclusive” are all answers given as to why this evening differed from all others.

More pictures and a video in the Extended Article!

Entering the Westminster in Livingston one could immediately feel the energy and excitement of the more than 550 guests that came to honor the contributions teenage volunteers can make to children with special needs and their families. The evening included a unique wine and cheese tasting, as well as sushi, soups and an elaborate dessert buffet. The reception was followed by the award presentation, which included a video presentation entitled “The Amazing Teens” depicting the newly expanded Friendship Circle programs for teens with special needs.

The highlights of the evening were the tributes to 825 teen volunteers and the evening’s Guests of Honor June and Michael Schechner and Lori and Jerry Solomon. Surrounded by their friends and families, the honorees were acknowledged for their commitment to families who have children with special needs throughout the community.

The teenage volunteers were recognized for their dedication and hard work on behalf of the Friendship Circle. As a group the teens have given more than 35,000 hours of friendship and support annually. Meredith Seewald, a volunteer and Friendship Circle president of Heritage Middle School in Livingston was given the honor of introducing her fellow volunteers.

In addition to being a source of comfort and companionship to the children and families, the teen volunteers reap the vast rewards derived from giving of themselves. “Contrary to public belief, I actually do love spending time that is not about me, but devoting it completely to someone else.” Meredith said, “In life every experience provides and opportunity for personal growth. I know the opportunity I have had to spend time with my special friend has had a great impact on me and I know that he enjoys the time and also looks forward to it every week.”

The evening however was not spent simply recognizing past achievements but looking forward to the work that still needs to be done and affirming the commitment and mission of the Friendship Circle. Recognizing the current economic crisis, Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum, the Executive Director of the Friendship Circle, said, “One of the many gifts children with special needs make us aware of is the pure faith, optimism and resiliency that are inherent within each one of us. By remaining positive, we can see these events not as setbacks, but as opportunities to bring ourselves to newer, better, and stronger places in life than ever before.”

The Friendship Circle was launched in October 2000 to identify and engage families who have children with special needs through a full range of social and educational experiences, and to enrich, inspire and motivate Jewish teens through sharing of themselves with others while at the same time providing parents with much needed respite.

As one of the fastest growing Jewish organization in northern New Jersey, the Friendship Circle’s wide array innovative programming promotes a greater awareness and understanding of both the unique needs and unique gifts of those with special needs, and encourages respect and empathy for those facing difficult challenges.