Programs | Friendship Circle

Programs

Friendship Circle is a nonprofit organization that pairs teen volunteers with an individual with special needs. Together, they form a lasting friendship and participate in one of our 40 weekly and seasonal programs.

Family Oak Park Respite Sunday & After School Summer Soul Projects All programs

Sunday

Efshar Circle

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Efshar Circle provides a Hebrew and Judaic education for children with special needs. Teachers focus on engaging the child’s sense of Jewish identity through exciting, hands-on learning. Each student is paired with a one-on-one volunteer which enables students to learn at their own pace with individualized curriculums. No previous Judaic instruction is necessary. Teachers design curricula to meet each student’s current level and learning style.

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Times: Sundays
Younger Groups: 10:30am – 12pm
Older Groups: 10am – 12pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $600

Dates:
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
December: 2
January: 6, 13, 20
February: 3, 10, 24
March: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
April:
May: 5, 12, 19

Efshar Circle is offered in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit’s Opening the Doors Program.
Interested in Joining Efshar Circle? Enquire Here:

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Sunday

Sunday Circle

Description

Details

| Volunteers

This program offers a unique opportunity for children to gain from group activities while still receiving one-on-one attention from their volunteers. Participants are divided into small groups to partake in structured activities and free play throughout the Friendship Circle facility. Activities include sports instruction, music and movement instruction, arts and craft, and free play in the activity wing and cheese-pit. Sunday Circle is a two hour drop off program creating a wonderful respite opportunity for parents.

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Times: Sundays, 12:30pm – 2:30pm
Ages: 4 – 12
Fee: $350

Dates:
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
December: 2, 9, 16
January: 6, 13, 20
February: 3, 10
March: 3, 17, 24
April: 7, 14

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Sunday

Pathfinders

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Pathfinders is a social outing program designed for participants who can safely attend community outings without a one-on-one volunteer. The outings are planned to give participants exposure to outdoor exploration, music, swimming, art, and social excursions. Pathfinders takes place outside of Friendship Circle, giving participants the opportunity to socialize with their peers, practice social interactions with community members, learn life skills and have fun!

Program Details
Location: Various sites around Metro Detroit
Times: Sundays, 1pm – 2:30pm
Ages: 13 and older
Fee: $300

*Drop off and pick-up at each site location.

Dates:
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
December: 2, 9, 16
January: 6, 13, 20
February: 3, 10
March: 3, 17, 24
April: 7, 14

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: Not one on one volunteers
Volunteer

Volunteer

Sunday

Teen Trips

Description

Details

| Volunteers

During Teen Trips, participants and their one-on-one volunteer go on weekly outings in the community to participate in meaningful projects and social opportunities. These trips give teens and young adults the opportunity to socialize with their peers, practice social interactions with community members, learn life skills and have fun! Weekly outings include bowling, going to the mall, swimming, visiting parks, museums and more!

Program Details
Location: Various Sites around Metro-Detroit
Times: Sundays 1pm – 2:30pm
Ages: 13 and older
Fee: $325

*Drop off and pick up at site location

Dates:
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
December: 2, 9, 16
January: 6, 13, 20
February: 3, 10
March: 3, 17, 24
April: 7, 14

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Sunday

Fall Basketball Clinic

Description

Details

| Volunteers

This six week basketball clinic is a great opportunity for players to build motor and social skills while playing basketball. Skills include ball handling, offensive and defensive strategies, zone and man-to-man defense, passing and moving with and without the ball and more. During the session players run drills, play basketball style games and scrimmages.

This program does not offer one-on-one volunteers and is appropriate for players looking to build skills in the game of basketball.

Program Details Location: Meer Center, Elkus Gym
Times: Sundays, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $75

Dates:
October: 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: Not one on one volunteers
Volunteer

Volunteer

Sunday

Winter Soccer Clinic

Description

Details

| Volunteers

The winter Soccer Clinic is being offered in partnership with TOPSoccer. TOPS centers around an inclusive environment where players of all abilities can enjoy the game of soccer, improve communications skills, make new friends and have fun!

This program offers one-on-one volunteers and is appropriate for all ability levels.

Program Details Location: Meer Center, Elkus Gym
Times: Sundays, 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $75

Dates:
December: 9, 16
January: 6, 13, 20
February: 10

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Sunday

Spring Floor Hockey Clinic

Description

Details

| Volunteers

The spring Floor Hockey Clinic is offered with equipment proudly sponsored by the Detroit Red Wings. Our Floor Hockey Clinic creates an inclusive environment where players of all abilities can enjoy the game of hockey while benefitting from exercise and movement.

This program offers one-on-one volunteers and is appropriate for all ability levels.

Program Details Location: Meer Center, Elkus Gym
Times: Sundays, 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $75

Dates:
February: 24
March: 3, 17, 24
April: 7, 14

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Mon or Tue

Social Circle

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Each week, participants meet their volunteer at Friendship Circle to enjoy one-on-one free play with full use of the Elkus Gym, Bauer Activity Wing and multipurpose room. Kids and buddies start each week with a welcome circle in the gym. Participants are then encouraged to create their very own schedule of free play to maximize fun! During Social Circle, the art room and water room offer a different, in-room activity each week. Participants will also be able to put together their own snack in the apartment!

*NEW FOR MONDAYS* Bring Your Own Game (BYOG!) will take place every week from 5-6pm. All Social Circle participants are welcome to bring their favorite board game or cards from home, to enjoy with a group of friends!

*NEW FOR TUESDAYS* Bring Your Own Homework (BYOH!) will take place every week from 5-6pm. All Social Circle participants are welcome to bring homework from school!

Siblings are welcome to participate

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Times: Mondays or Tuesdays
4:30pm – 5:30pm or 5pm – 6pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $200

Dates:	Monday	Tuesday
Oct	8, 15, 22, 29	9, 16, 23, 30
Nov	5, 12, 19, 26	6, 13, 20, 27
Dec	3, 10, 17	4, 11, 18
Jan	7, 14, 28	8, 15, 22, 29
Feb	4, 11, 25	5, 12, 26
Mar	4, 11, 18, 25	5, 12, 19, 26
Apr	8, 29	9, 30
May	6, 13	7, 14

Volunteers: Mondays – Boy Volunteer Corps, Tuesdays – Girls Volunteer Corps
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Tuesday

Intro to Art

Description

Details

| Volunteers

During our Intro to Art program young artists work in the state of the art Dresner Soul Studio inside Friendship Circle’s Farber Center. Participants will have the opportunity to explore fine art mediums under the guidance of facilitating artists at the Farber Center. Mediums include drawing, painting, paper mache, textiles and more. The art program is offered in two, eight-week sessions and is designed for participants who do not require a one-on-one volunteer.

Program Details
Location: Farber Center
Times: Tuesdays, 5pm – 6:00pm
Ages: 10 and older
Fee: $160/session

Dates:
Session 1
October: 23, 30
November: 6, 13, 20, 27
December: 4, 11

Session 2
January: 8, 15, 29
February: 5, 12, 26
March: 5, 12

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: Not one on one volunteers
Volunteer

Volunteer

Tuesday

Tech Teens

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Friendship Circle’s revamped technology program will require participants to bring their own device! Led by Friendship Circle’s own tech extraordinare Jon, the Tech Teens program will teach participants the fundamentals of graphic design, programming and web creation. This program utilizes technology as a creative outlet, allowing participants to explore topics they are passionate about. Tech Teens is tailored for teens and young adults who do not require a one-on-one volunteer.

Program Details Location: Farber Center
Times: Tuesdays, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Ages: 13 and older
Fee: $120/session

Dates:
Session 1
October: 23, 30
November: 6, 13, 20, 27
December: 4, 11

Session 2

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: Not one on one volunteers
Volunteer

Volunteer

Wednesday

Open Gym

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Open Gym allows participants an opportunity to get some exercise with their one-on-one volunteer in a fun, social environment. Gym time will include familiar games such as basketball, soccer and hockey as well as free choice, stretching, playground games and more. Open Gym allows each person to enjoy exercise and game play at an individual level while enjoying social interactions with their volunteer, coaches, and peers.

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Times: Wednesdays, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $250

Dates:
October: 10, 17, 24, 31
November: 7, 14, 21, 28
December: 5, 12, 19
January: 9, 16, 23, 30
February: 6, 13, 27
March: 6, 13, 27
April: 10

Volunteers: Boys
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Wednesday

Life Skills

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Life Skills takes place in the state of the art Weinberg Village and gives participants the opportunity to practice life skills in a realistic, safe, and controlled environment. Focus areas for the village include street safety, money skills, personal responsibility, and inter/intra personal communication skills. Location specific goals include things such as visiting the doctor or placing an order in the cafe. Life Skills also offers a simulated job experience for all participants ages 13 and older. This unique program offers the excitement and fun of the village as well as serious life skill development.

Program Details Location: Meer Center
Times: Wednesdays, 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Sessions: 2
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $100/session

Dates:
Session 1
November: 7, 14, 21, 28
December: 5, 12, 19

Session 2
January: 30
February: 6, 13, 27
March: 6, 13, 27

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Thursday

Interactive Music

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Interactive Music is a great social option for anyone with musical leanings. Participants enjoy movement, rhythm, singing, games and sound making throughout the program. Participants will practice collaboration, taking turns and sharing, all while making friends.

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Times: Thursdays, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Sessions: Fall
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $75

Dates:
November: 1, 8, 15, 29
December: 6, 13

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Thursday

Drama

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Drama is a theater program that uses acting and movement to empower performers to get on stage and shine. Participants will take part in a full theater experience beginning with creating the show, practicing, and then performing for a live audience. This enriching program is provided in partnership with 4th Wall Theater Company.

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Times: Thursdays, 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Sessions: Winter
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $75

Dates:
January: 31
February: 7, 14, 28
March: 7, 14

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Thursday

Baking with Friends

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Our baking program invites future bakers to join a facilitated discussion on manners, recipes, and preparing food in a fun class environment with their one-on-one volunteer. Over the course of the program, participants learn food safety and prepare simple desserts that can be re-created at home. This program offers one-on-one volunteers and is appropriate for all ages.

Program Details Location: Meer Center
Times: Thursdays, 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Sessions: 2
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $100/session

Dates:
Session 1
November: 1, 8, 15, 29
December: 6, 13

Session 2
January: 31
February: 7, 14, 28
March: 7, 14

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Volunteer

Thanksgiving Day Respite

Description

Details

| Volunteers

While schools are closed and the dishes are dirty, Friendship Circle offers a three hour respite style program for participants to enjoy some time out of the house following Thanksgiving Day. Participants will utilize the Bauer Activity Wing, lunch PLUS a special show!

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Date: Friday, Nov 23, 2018
Time: 10am – 1pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $20

Siblings are welcome to participate

Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Respite

Winter Camp

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Friendship Circle provides a fun-filled week with enjoyable and educational trips around Metro Detroit while school is closed. During this week on the town, campers and their volunteers build friendships and connections to last a lifetime! Campers may be registered for individual days or the entire camp to ensure the best-fit schedule for your busy winter break!

Program Details
Date: Dec 23 – Dec 27, Monday – Friday
Time: 10am – 3pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $375, or $75/day

Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Respite

MLK Day Camp

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Our MLK Day Camp provides a full day of activities for participants to keep busy while school is out! We will enjoy a field trip in the Metro Detroit community for a day of adventure, social opportunities and fun!

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Date: Monday, Jan 21
Time: 10am – 3pm
Ages: All Ages
Fee: $75

Siblings are welcome to participate

Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Respite

Mid-Winter Break Overnight Camp

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Campers are invited to join the Friendship Circle in a fun-filled overnight camp while school is closed for Mid-Winter Break. Campers will have the opportunity to engage in winter-themed activities such as sledding, building snowmen and drinking cocoa while enjoying the experience of sleeping in a cabin with all of their friends. During camp, we will venture out on the town for an exciting day trip!

Program Details
Location: BBYO Bittker Center
Date: Sunday – Tuesday, Feb 17 – 19
Ages: Boys: 6 – 12, Girls: 6 – 16
Fee: $450

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Respite

Dinner and a Movie Night

Description

Details

| Volunteers

Kids, sibs, teens and adults are invited to join us for a fun, laid back movie night. We will gather in the multi purpose room for dinner (gluten free available) and then head into the theater to enjoy the show. Movie goers are invited to bring a pillow and/or blanket and are welcome to come in their jammies if they like. This two hour program is a great opportunity for parents to enjoy a date night, run errands or take a nap! This program offers one-on-one volunteers.

Siblings are welcome to participate

Program Details
Location: Meer Center, Weinberg Village Theater
Date:
Time:
Ages: All Ages
Member Fee: $15

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Respite

Super Sunday @ Meer

Description

Details

| Volunteers

On Super Sunday, participants enjoy all of the fun of Sunday Circle PLUS a special show! Participants are divided into small groups to partake in structured activities and free play throughout the Friendship Circle facility. Activities include sports instruction, music and movement instruction, arts and craft, and free play in the activity wing and cheese-pit. Shows include magicians, music, science and more! This program is an extension of Sunday Circle, offering a special 1-hour addition to the typical respite opportunity for parents.

Program Details
Location: Meer Center
Dates: November 25, February 3, May 5
Time: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Ages: 4 – 12
Fee: $30, unless already attending Sunday Circle

Volunteers: Girls
Volunteer Type: One on one
Volunteer

Respite

Super Sunday with Teens

Description

Details

| Volunteers

On Super Sunday, participants and their volunteer go on an extended outing in the community to participate in a social opportunity, meaningful project and have fun! These trips give teens and young adults the opportunity to socialize with their peers, practice social interactions with community members, learn life skills and have fun! Outings include swimming, a trip to the movies, visiting parks, museums and more! This program combines Teen Trips and Pathfinders participants in an an extension of the typical Sunday program, offering a special 1-hour addition to the usual respite opportunity for parents.

Program Details
Location: Various sites around Metro Detroit*
Dates: November 25th, February 3, May 5
Time: 1 pm – 3:30 pm
Ages: 13 and older
Fee: $30, unless already attending Pathfinders or Teen Trips

Drop off and pick up at site location