Connecticut Yachad - Circle of Friends
YACHAD–Circle of Friends provides a wide array of innovative programming promoting a greater awareness and understanding of both the unique needs and the unique gifts of people with special needs and encourages respect and empathy for those facing difficult challenges.The participants and their families benefit from weekly, home visits and monthly recreational group programming. Children, teens and adults with special needs
celebrate the holidays with exciting, interactive programs that bring to life the spirit and richness of the Jewish traditions.
Our Programs
Home with Friends
- Every week teenage volunteers visit children and teens in their homes, offering friendship and sharing activities. These teens are specially trained for their valuable role as friend and mentor.
- On Sundays throughout the school year our teenage volunteers and their special friends spend many wonderful hours together. In a fun filled atmosphere they participate in sports, music, and art and learn about their Jewish heritage, holidays and traditions. Professionals in the area of special education and therapists lead the activities. Sunday Circle is held on Sundays once a month.
- YACHAD – Circle of Friends hosts a monthly program on Wednesday evenings for adults with disabilities. Volunteers join in to socialize and enjoy music, dance, art, snack and special activities.
- Yachad - Circle of Friends Holiday Programs allow the entire family to celebrate together in a comfortable setting. Volunteers are on hand to ensure that the event meets the particular needs of the participants. Innovative activities bring the warm and joyous feelings of the holidays to the children and their families.
- YACHAD – Circle offers a monthly support group for siblings. The program is led by professionals and includes art, games, snack and informal round discussion.
- Currently being offered or developed include: a winter/summer camp, Bar and Bat Mitzvah lessons and celebrations, birthday parties, a Hebrew Learning Program and adult volunteer opportunities.
You Can Help!
- Do you know a teenager who would like to volunteer?
- Can you drive a volunteer to the home of their special friend?
- Do you know a family with a special needs child that would like a weekly visit from a teenage volunteer?
- Would you like to support our programs and help us continue the work of Yachad - Circle of Friends?
The Circle of Friends is made up of you, our volunteers, children, parents, staff, and supporters. We can all join together, B'YACHAD to form a seamless circle!
Yachad- Circle of Friends is a Community Project of Beth Israel of Westport/ Norwalk & The Schneerson Center for Jewish Life, CT
40 King Street Norwalk, CT 06851
203.866.0534
http://www.bethisraelct.org/circleoffriends.html
