Friendship Circle of Arizona
Organization Mission
"The Friendship Circle is all about building a better world for children with special needs … one friend at a time." The organization, founded in 2005 by Chabad of Arizona, pairs teen volunteers with children, teens, and young adults with special needs to create lasting friendships and provide respite for families, serving the community regardless of religious affiliation.
Age Restrictions
Volunteers are primarily teenagers; the flagship "Friends at Home" program typically pairs volunteers who are eighth-graders and up (roughly age 13+) with a child with special needs. Programs are designed around teen volunteers.
Application Process
Prospective volunteers apply through the "Become a Volunteer" section of the website. Volunteers in the Sunday Circle program arrive early for a brief orientation/preparation before each session. Contact is through the Phoenix office (2110 E. Lincoln Dr, Phoenix, AZ).
Description of Volunteer Service
Teen volunteers are matched one-on-one or in pairs with children who have special needs for home visits ("Friends at Home") and structured group programs ("Sunday Circle"), engaging in play, music, and recreational activities. The experience provides friendship for the children, respite for parents, and personal growth for the volunteers.
Firsthand Experience
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