Our Mission: At the Friendship Circle of Pacific Palisades, we are dedicated to bringing joy and companionship to local children, teens, and young adults with special needs, as well as bringing energy, support, and peace of mind to their parents and families. Built on the foundational Torah principle of “V’ahavta L’reyacho Komocha” - “love your fellow as yourself”, our unique model peers teen and young adult volunteers with individuals with special needs for hours of fun and friendship at our programs. We aim to enrich the lives of all participants through mutually advantageous interactions, creating lasting friendships that cultivate an atmosphere of inclusion in our community. The opportunity to connect with a special friend in a meaningful way has a profound impact on everyone involved. Step by step, person by person, we are shaping a kinder, more compassionate, and selfless community.
Our Vision: We envision a more inclusive West LA community, where all people with special needs and their families experience love, acceptance, and friendship. We picture all facets of the community coming together as one supportive and united family. We see local Jewish teens and young adults feeling a sense of connection to the greater community by recognizing the inherent value in individuals of all abilities and developing the sensitivity and social skills necessary, creating tomorrow's leaders and changing the world for good.
Our Inspiration: The inspiration for Friendship Circle and its motivation to continuously do more comes from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson of righteous memory. The Rebbe, the seventh leader in the Chabad-Lubavitch dynasty, is considered to be the most phenomenal Jewish personality of modern times. The Rebbe’s unconditional love for people knew no bounds. It is his belief that none of us is complete unless all of us are included. It is this single concept that motivates the Friendship Circle.
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