Sun, April 26 | 5 PM
Sponsor Sponsor

About Philly Friendship Circle

Based on the Jewish value of “Love your fellow as yourself”, our mission is to connect teens and young adults to youth with special needs and their families through a full range of social offerings. Inspired by the power of genuine friendships, our youth cultivate understanding, kindness, and responsibility while ensuring a caring and inclusive community.

Gala Countdown!
Honoring

Our Teens and Young Adults

Youth Co-Chairs
Ben Berger
Aaron Silber
Robbie Stutman
Rikki Teicher
Gala Hosts
Kelly & Michael Barrie
Debbie Blume & Steve Stutman
Melissa Lerman & Eric Berger
Nadine & Noel Silber
Become a Gala Sponsor

Your partnership keeps our heart beating

At Philly Friendship Circle, connection doesn't happen by chance. It's cultivated. Behind every joyful moment is a thoughtful system that keeps our heart beating strong, allowing friendships to grow and endure.
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At the Heart of What We Do

Creating connection for every member of the family,
across all of our programs, including:

Sunday Circle Playroom
Early Childhood & Families
With more younger children, siblings, and entire families joining, we expanded with carefully facilitated, age-appropriate experiences—powered by added staff and essential equipment.
MVP Intro Program
Tweens Grades 6-7
Strong enrollment in grades 6 to 7 has already prompted future planning, reflecting sustained interest and growing demand that continues to exceed available program capacity.
Young Adult Game Night
Young Adults 18+
Initiated and led by one of our alumni, this pilot program fills a gap by creating a warm, home-like space where young adults feel safe, included, and eager to return.

Stories that come from the heart


“I'm so grateful to be a part of such a supportive group of people where everyone is encouraged to grow, thrive, and live authentically. Every time I go to an event, I am surrounded by laughter and a genuine joy that I have not seen anywhere else."

– Ella, Philly Friendship Circle Teen
“My son doesn't attend every event, but the ones he chooses to attend, it's like a giant exhale - I don't have to be by his side. Everything he needs, they have for him. All the i's are dotted and the t's are crossed.”

– Cara, Philly Friendship Circle Mom
"Philly Friendship Circle isn't just a program—it's a feeling. Like hot chocolate with marshmallows or a warm hug.”

– Deborah Livingston, Philly Friendship Circle Mom and Board Member"
210

Children & Teens

with & without disabilites
78

Young Adults

with & without disabilites
88

New Friends

signed up in 2025
75%

Attendance Rate

for 3 or more programs
Why Sponsor?

Together, we keep friendship at the heart of it all.

Your financial partnership allows us to grow, adapt, and ensure every friend and family has a place where they are truly seen and valued.
Become a Foundational Friend

Help sustain the heart and growth of Philly Friendship Circle all year long.

We gratefully acknowledge our circle of Foundational Friends — early partners in the inaugural year of our new multi-year giving circle. Their steady, year-round support helps ensure long-term stability and meaningful growth at Philly Friendship Circle.

Learn more Learn more

Dotty & Larry Brown

Vicki & Gary Erlbaum

Beth & David Joseph

Sharon & Jonathan Levin

Freda Pepper & Howard Bernstein

Ali & Lee Sussman

Jill & Brian Rosen

List as of 2/20