Friendship Circle

The Bay Area Friendship Circle, located in Palo Alto,  pairs trained high school students to children and teens with special needs for a full range of social, educational and recreational activities.  Our programs are inspired by core Jewish values, traditions and culture and are open to all regardless of religion and ethnicity.

Sunday Programs:

Sunday Circle/Teen Circle: Bi-monthly program for children ages 5-12 and teens ages 13 – 20+ providing social and recreational activities such as sports, games and outdoor time at either the Magical Bridge Playground or on site, plus music, yoga and art.  Participants are matched with a one-on-one trained high school volunteer and overall supported by on-site therapists. This program is ideal for children and teens who can benefit from one-on-one support in a flexible and less structured setting that provides opportunities to participate in a way that best  meets their needs.

Social Circle – Social Skills Program:  Bi-monthly program for children ages 6-12 and teens ages 13+  who can benefit from a group focusing on learning and practicing social skills through recreational and social activities in a fun and supportive environment.  Activities include social/life skills games/activities, sports with an emphasis on cooperation and teamwork skills, and collaborative art and music. Our on-site therapist works as a guide to help participants develop social goals in a natural environment.  Participants are grouped with 1 to 2 other children and a teen volunteer that provides friendship and support.

Young Adult’s Circle 

At Bay Area Friendship Circle’s Young Adult’s Circle, participants with special needs are paired with other young adult volunteers who provide them with friendship, support and mentorship during their transition years. Events are held on Saturday or Sunday evenings. 

Young Adult participants gain leadership and social skills by having the opportunity to create their own activities with the support of their peers. Young Adult’s Circle also gives the participants an opportunity to learn living skills that foster independence. The Young Adult’s Circle is run by a therapist, as well as a board of Friendship Circle young adult participants and young adult volunteers.