Sunday AM (Jan-May 2025)

From: 4 To: 45

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 one-on-one with a 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.

Sunday 12:00-1:30 (Jan-May 2025)

From: 5 To: 17

This program offers a unique opportunity for children to gain from group activities while still receiving one-on-one engagement 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 crafts, and free play in the activity wing. Sunday Circle is an hour and a half drop-off program, creating a wonderful respite opportunity for parents. 

This year we are offering two sessions of Sunday Circle. Enrollment is limited to only one session.

Sunday 4:15-5:30pm (Jan-May 2025)

From: 13 To: 17

During Teen Trips, teen participants and volunteers go on weekly outings in the community to participate in meaningful projects and social opportunities. These trips give teens the opportunity to socialize with their peers, practice social interactions with community members, learn life skills and have fun! Teen Trips takes place outside of Friendship Circle, giving teens the opportunity to enjoy activities such as bowling, trips to the mall, swimming, visiting parks, museums and more! Teen Trips is best for participants that can navigate activities and discussions more independently.

Location: Various sites around Metro-Detroit*

*Drop off and pick up at site location.

Sunday 2:00-3:30pm (Jan-May 2025)

From: 9 To: 17

The Life and Social Skills Program provides participants with a realistic and supportive environment to develop essential life and interpersonal skills. Held in the state-of-the-art Elkus Village, the program combines practical life skill development with opportunities to enhance social abilities. Key focus areas include effective communication, building and maintaining relationships, conflict resolution, teamwork, street safety, money management, and personal responsibility. Participants also engage in activities such as visiting the doctor, placing an order in the café, and experiencing a simulated job environment for those aged 13 and older. With its engaging activities and real-world applications, the program promotes empathy, active listening, independence, and confidence while offering the excitement and fun of the village experience.

Tuesday 4:30-5:30pm (Jan-May 2025)

From: 5 To: 17

Organized Sports gives participants an opportunity to get some exercise and exposure to new sports with their one-on-one volunteer in a fun, social environment. Each week we will lead a lesson in a specific sport such as soccer, pickleball, floor hockey and more. Our aim is to promote skill and interest building in new activities as well as the importance of working with teammates.

Monday 5:00-6:00pm (Jan-May 2025)

From: 5 To: 17

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 with a welcome circle in the gym before creating their very own schedule of free play to maximize the fun! During Social Circle, the art room and apartment offer a different, in-room activity and snack each week. 

Siblings are invited to participate.

Wednesday 5:00-6:00pm

From: 5 To: 17

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 with a welcome circle in the gym before creating their very own schedule of free play to maximize the fun! During Social Circle, the art room and apartment offer a different, in-room activity and snack each week. 

Siblings are invited to participate.

Sunday 4:15-5:30 (Jan-May 2025)

From: 17 To: 23

Our Transitions Together program is specially designed for young adults with special needs, ages 17-23, who are preparing to transition into adulthood. This new program offers the opportunity to build social skills while providing participants with fun, interactive experiences and activities that help them gain independence and confidence and make friends! Activities include movement, art, sports, field trips and more. This program is ideal for those who have aged out of our Friendship Circle kids & teen programs and who are interested in future involvement in our adult programs.                                     

*this is not a prerequisite to enter adult programs