As you know, my parents have been involved with Friendship Circle for a very long time. My mom was actually the first official employee in 1997 and held various positions at Friendship Circle and Friendship House until 2015.

My father also worked at the Daniel Sobel Friendship House for 9 years as the Recovery Rabbi. For all of my life, I have grown up alongside Friendship Circle and watched them perform miracles for thousands of families in the community!

Now it's my turn. I have been attending Friendship Circle programs like Efshar Circle and Sunday Circle for many years. This summer, I enjoyed day camp at Friendship Circle and now I am headed to a week of overnight camp at Friendship Circle. At camp, I swim, boat, and play games. But most importantly, I play with my friends. That is what I really like doing at Friendship Circle!

Last week, I celebrated my Bat Mitzvah with my family at the Rebbe's holy resting place. For this one-in-a-lifetime occasion, I hope you can celebrate with me by joining my effort to fundraise for Walk4Friendship - Friendship Circle's annual walk fundraiser. Friendship Circle has always been there for me and my family. So I hope you will join me in my mission of raising $1,800 and support me as I walk with Friendship Circle in honor of my Bat Mitzvah. I have participated in the walk every single year since I was a newborn, when I attended in a stroller. But this year will be special, for the first time I will begin the walk as a Jewish adult.

Friendship Circle is so much more than an organization with programs; it’s a community of love and friendship. Help me give back to an organization that has given my family so much.

At Friendship Circle I am included, celebrated and given every opportunity to shine.

Thank you for your support!

Shayna Pinson