Our Programs

Home with Friends

Each week volunteer teens come to your home to spend time with your child. The volunteers are screened and receive  orientation from professionals in the field of special education prior to their home visits.
A schedule is set up by our family coordinator to accommodate each child.​

Sunday Circle/Teen Scene

Once a month on Sundays 2:00 – 4:00 PM, throughout the  year, our teenage volunteers and your child spend two wonderful hours together.  In a fun filled atmosphere, highlighting a seasonal  holiday or theme, participants enjoy a wide variety of activities such as music,  dance, art, sports, snack, baking, cooking, yoga, story time, games and special activities. Professionals in the field of special education and therapists lead the activities. Parents receive a respite as their children engage in an afternoon of quality social and educational activities. 
Sunday Circle & Teen Scene run consecutively.​

Young Adult/Adult Circle

Circle of Friends hosts a monthly program on Tuesday evenings, 6:00-7:30PM for young adults & adults with disabilities. Participants are transported to and from their group residences and homes and then join together with volunteers to socialize, enjoy music, dance, art, snack, games, cooking, baking and trips. Young adults participate in Community Service projects & outings. to theater, sports events, hikes, apple picking and other exciting places.

Additional Programs

 Community Awareness
 Circle of Friends hosts community awareness events and provides lecturers to educate the community on individuals with disabilities and respect of differences.
 Bar/Bat Mitzvah
 Every child deserves a Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration. Circle of Friends will custom tailor a service and celebration for that Special Day. 
Hebrew School Jewish Enrichment Program
meets Sundays 10:30 – 11:30am. Using the most progressive teaching methods, each student receives an individualized approach to maximize their capabilities and build their self esteem.
Swimming
In partnership with the Westport Y & Special Olympics.  
Ages 8-18 - Monthly, Sundays 3:30-4:30pm
@ the YMCA 14 Allen Raymond Lane Westport, CT 06880.
Forms must be emailed or mailed to the YMCA
ATT: Jay Jaronka before participating.
Participation in Special Olympics is not required.
 Download the  registration forms here
​Life Skills
For a child with special needs, the “outside world” can seem overwhelmingly strange. Under the Life Skills program, teen volunteers and professionals help them become comfortable in public places so they can gain confidence and become as self-sufficient as possible. 
​​Camp
Winter/Summer Camp.  Visit our Camp page for more information.
Sib Shop - Sibling Support Group
Circle of Friends offers sibling support groups. The group is lead by a family therapist and includes games, art, snack and discussion.
​Hospital Visits & Counseling
In a time of crisis or need  Circle of Friends is here for you with care packages and visits.