I’ve been at Friendship Circle for just a year. In that time, I’ve seen things that have changed me.

I’ve seen participants walk through our doors carrying the weight of a world that was not built for them—and slowly begin to put that weight down. I’ve seen someone realize they do not need to hide their stimming. That their joy, their movements, their energy are not just accepted here, but celebrated. I’ve seen families cry tears of relief because, for the first time, someone looked at their adult child and saw potential, not limitations.

At Friendship Circle, we see every person as inherently worthy. No fixing, no filtering, no conditions. Just love. Real, intentional, unconditional love.

I’ve watched participants in our Vocational Program discover their sense of purpose—learning to show up on time, follow through, solve problems, and take pride in a job well done. I’ve seen Life Skills participants grow more independent every week—learning how to ride the bus, prepare food, navigate friendships, advocate for themselves, and share openly about the realities of adulthood with a disability. I’ve watched peers teach each other, support one another, and create a culture of kindness that many of us spend our whole lives searching for.

I’ve seen artists in Soul Studio take the things the world told them were too big, too much, too different—and turn them into art that speaks louder than any words ever could. I’ve seen Social Programs filled with laughter, bravery, deep conversations, and new beginnings. I’ve seen families find connection again. I’ve seen participants find themselves.

This place is not just a program. It is a lifeline. A community. A promise that no one is too complex to be understood or too different to belong.

That is why I’m walking. And that is why I’m asking for your help.

Your donation directly supports the programs that make all of this possible. It allows us to say yes to more participants, to offer more access, to provide more moments of joy, growth, and dignity.

Whether you give five dollars or five hundred, you are helping us build a world where every person is valued, included, and celebrated exactly as they are.

Thank you for believing in this work. And thank you for walking with us.