Friendship Circle of Los Angeles Holds Annual Garden Party

On Tuesday, May 21st, in the gorgeous gardens of a private home, Friendship Circle of Los Angeles (FCLA) under the direction of Rabbi Michy and Miriam Rav-Noy celebrated their 552 volunteers at the annual Garden Party.

The night culminated an incredible year at FCLA, with the ceremony highlighting the shared passion for inclusion.

A new element was hearing from parents of Avery and Aiden who participate in a variety of the FCLA programs. The parents spoke about how FCLA has made such a large impact on their family. She said her boys have loved being part of our Friends at Home Program, Hebrew School, Holiday Programs and Camps. She also mentioned that most people don’t understand the countless hours that parents of special needs children spend advocating for their children. She said, “If there were more programs like FC who taught children, teens and adults how to give of themselves to others – our wold would be a more tolerant and accepting place.”

Keynote Speaker, Brandon Farbstein captivated the crowd with his story. After severe bullying and an attempted suicide, he turned his life around and wants to encourage everyone else to do the same. His words made an engaging and profound impact on the entire crowd. At 19 Brandon has traveled the world as a GenZ activist and author after discovering his calling at age 15 on the TedX stage. He realized his life’s meaning – to change the lens through which people see their world.

An amazing group of 51 recipients for the Fellowship Award were given to volunteers who have dedicated an exceptional amount of hours to spend time with their special friends and further their knowledge in the field of special education. Each volunteer was called up and presented with a beautiful certificate and glass award for their tremendous commitment.

Friendship- The Big Picture video made an emotional ripple as it profiled loneliness as a serious problem and how FCLA has made dramatic changes in the lives of those children and young adults who participate in all of our 24 programs.

Amid confetti and cheers, Miriam Rav-Noy, the Program Director warmed the crowd as she saluted the volunteers. She said “Volunteers, we are so many flames ablaze. Together, when we shine brighter, warmer and stronger. We are unstoppable!”

This year’s Garden Party was a huge success and an evening to remember. A record number of amazing people were in attendance to celebrate our volunteers and Friendship Circle community.