The Friendship Circle is holding an Aug. 26 car decorating competition as a preview to its 2nd annual Walk4Friendship.

"This is a way to kind of get some excitement going and build interest," said coordinator Terri Wright. "Last year some 750 to 1, 000 people participated in the walk. This year we expect 2,000 to 2,500."

She said information about the walk will be available at the contest.

The contest will be held from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26, at the Meer Family Friendship Center, 6892 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield.

Judge Friedman will judge the cars, trucks and SUVs. Some 60 are anticipated; there is no pre-registration.

"We will have all the supplies people need," she said, adding that window paint used will not harm cars.

The 5K walk is 1-4 p.m. Sunday Sept. 9. It begins at the Applebaum Jewish Community Campus and ends at the Meer Family Friendship Circle with an open air market, food and entertainment.

The walk helps fund programs. The Friendship Circle provides assistance and support to the families of children with special needs as well as to individuals and families struggling with addiction, isolation and other crises.

"It's a pretty awesome place," said Wright.

For more information, call Wright at (248)788-7878, ext. 200. Or go to the website, friendship.org.

- By Susan Steinmueller