Friendship Circle of Brooklyn, well known in our community as an organization servicing children with special needs and their families, is pleased to announce a new program for its members.
Thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Libby Chein, an after school program of recreation and learning will be available to special children.
“I was in a bind as to what to do with my son, Boruch Shneur, who is 9 years old and who was coming home from public school at 2:30pm while I was still at work,” said Mrs. Chein. After networking with some friends, I made contact with Michael Appelbaum from Yachad, an organization that works with children with special needs, who was very interested in helping me out. Michael got right to work to see how we can make this a reality. After contacting Berel Majesky, director of FC Brooklyn, and after many discussions, the talks turned to the idea of working together to develop an after-school program right here in Crown Heights!”
“It is thrilling for us to offer yet another source of respite to our families”’ said Berel Majesky. “Many special ed programs, especially for younger ages, end early in the afternoon. Keeping children entertained, focused, and occupied for the remainder of the day is simply too challenging for most programs.”
The after-school program will offer a wide array of activities that will serve a dual purpose in respite and Jewish education, something that is sadly missing in many special childrens formal education. Although most of these children are growing up in religious homes, the beauty and understanding about everything they see and hear – whether it be Shabbos, Yom Tov or Parsha, is not yet being taught to them. The Friendship Circle is looking forward to offering a packed schedule with exciting and innovative lessons, bringing the warmth and excitement of Judaism to these children in a tangible way.
The program is scheduled to open this year and some staffing positions are still available. All resumes and references can be emailed to Michael at [email protected]
Just what we needed!! Thank you Libby and the Majeskys. Will there be a charge??