FC Volunteers Thanked in LA

The Friendship Circle of Los Angeles held their 9th Annual Evening of Recognition Thursday May 17th, 2012.

Attendees who gathered at the Nesshah Synagogue were greeted on arrival by a cheerful welcoming committee headed by Chanie Sagorsky.

Volunteers were greeted by a beautiful sign that saluted them for providing 17,391 hours of friendship this year, the elegant décor served as the perfect backdrop for the delicious buffet, catered by Abba’s Fine Catering.

Young and old were feasting their eyes on the enticing prizes being auctioned off in the event’s Chinese Auction. From amazing getaways, tempting restaurants, irresistible electronics and skateboards- everyone was hoping to be “the winner”!

FCLA’s Director of Development, Gail Rollman opened the evening’s program with her warm remarks and gratitude for all those in the FC community.

Rabbi Michy Rav-Noy followed and kept the audience’s attention as he shared the moving story of how the Friendship Circle was able to purchase its new building. It happened during Chanukkah- a true miracle as developers were eager to tear the existing building down and build apartments.

Instead, FCLA will utilize the current space, completely re-do the yard and create a beautiful handicap accessible playground filled with opportunities for growth, learning and fun for kids of all abilities!

Through the acquisition, Friendship Circle also helped a Jewish synagogue continue its operation and not have to relocate due to a foreclosure. More so, together with this synagogue, FCLA will create a welcoming ‘shul’ experience for children and adults who have special needs. The exciting plans for the future expansion of the Friendship Circle headquarters was met with much applause and cheering.

A special tribute was presented to RPO (Real Estate Principals Organization) for their commitment to help build the FCLA’s new playground.

Jay Sanderson, the president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles presented FCLA with a check for $80,000 which will be the seed money for the new yard. Jon Monkarsh, Chairman of RPO, spoke about his family’s personal relationship with FCLA beginning 5 years ago when his children started to volunteer.

Since then, Jon and his wife Heidi, along with their extended family have generously sponsored all the holiday programs.

Terri Barach, spoke about her son Michael and his early involvement with our Club Kung Fu program. She mentioned how Michael thrived under the direction of the kind volunteers, superb instruction and friendships that blossomed. She also reflected on the annual Mom’s Night Out, which has been a highlight for not only Terri but many other mom’s to relax and enjoy each others company.

The guest of honor, Sally Weber spoke beautifully about her relationship with Rabbi Michy and Miriam in the early years. It was so fitting to honor her as she recently retired after many years at Jewish Family Service. Her passion, wisdom and natural ability to help others was evident in her words to all in attendance.

Sally introduced the moving Summer Camp video. Listening to the teen volunteers express their desire to help our children and reflect on how they grew from their experiences. Their words give us hope that the teens will not only be future leaders but true advocates for the special needs community.

Seizing the moment, Rabbi Michy proceeded with a live appeal generating a positive response from the audience. He spoke about the various components in the new playground and asked for the community’s help in sponsoring the various items. From sun protecting shades to creative play spaces, generous pledges were made to increase funds for the project.

Jack Gindi, who received the first ever Volunteer Initiative Award, shared the story of how he created a basketball program for our boys. Everyone was inspired by his willingness to take on the challenge. Jack created a new program that allows the boys to enjoy the sport, share time with their volunteers and enhance their physical abilities.

Lastly, Jack challenged everyone in the room to go out and make a difference on their own by starting a program that doesn’t currently exist at FCLA.

Julie Monkarsh-Gadinsky presented 25 volunteers with the Fellowship Award for their outstanding commitment and for going the extra mile to educate themselves about their special friends.

Program Director, Miriam Rav-Noy closed the evening with a salute to the 332 teen volunteers representing over 45 schools across the city. Miriam’s lovely story of an oak tree represented the growth of FC’s children, its programs and the organization.