It’s 10 am. Rachel has been up since 7. She had waffles for breakfast as she usually does. She logs onto her computer and joins a zoom session.
Let me stop right there. It’s not what you’re thinking. It’s not a boring zoom meeting. It’s not your same old camera and audio off, staring into black screens with white letters type of zoom call.
Just wait- you’ll see.
Rachel is admitted in by a dedicated volunteer.
“Rachel, how are you?!”, asked Kim excitedly- VERY excitedly. (Kim is a super friendly 31 year old with autism).
The question is the same almost every day.
The answer: “I’m doing good Kim, how about you?!” – it’s also pretty much the same as yesterday.
But the excitement—the genuine interest in that daily check-in—and the equally genuine response from Rachel? That never gets old.
Rachel spends the next hour listening to a story, doing a craft, discussing the topic of the day, playing a game, and, of course—in true Rachel fashion—sharing her signature knock-knock joke (yes, it’s the same one every day, and yes, it still gets a laugh).
This Zoom call—this one-of-a-kind, even revolutionary, virtual session—isn’t just a stand-alone program.
It’s a community.
A circle of friends made up of teens and adults with varying special needs from across the world.
It’s a space where everyone belongs.
Where differences don’t matter.
Where joy is constant and common—and somehow never gets old.
It’s Friendship Circle Online.
At FCO, we run virtual programs multiple times a day. 10 a.m. is just one example. We offer consistent, engaging programming for teens and adults with special needs—whether they’re working part-time, occasionally attending in-person events, or spending most of their time at home.
We provide true, lasting friendships; focused, individualized care; daily fun programs; Jewish learning opportunities; one-on-one friendship pairings; holiday events; care packages; and seasonal camps.
Now, that same spirit is being poured into something even more exciting: Friendship Circle Online’s Virtual Summer Camp 2025
Here’s what to expect:
● Dates: June 23 – July 18
● Schedule: Monday–Friday
○ Mornings: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
○ Afternoons: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
● What’s included: Camp T-shirt + a fully customized supply package shipped to each participant
● Who it’s for: Teens and adults with special needs who want fun, friendship, and connection—wherever they are
This four-week virtual experience is designed to make summer unforgettable. Whether a participant is mostly at home, working part-time, or not near a local Friendship Circle chapter, this camp brings joy right to them—every single day.
FCO is more than a camp. It’s a daily community. It’s friendship that sticks. It’s inclusive, individualized programming built for all needs and personalities. From Jewish learning and holiday celebrations to crafts, games, and care packages—Friendship Circle Online offers a little bit of everything.
And yes… there’s always time for a good knock-knock joke.
Ready to Join the Fun?
�� Sign up here for Virtual Summer Camp 2025:
https://friendshipcircle.com/friendship-circle-online/summer-camp/
�� Scholarships available—just ask!
�� Use code FC10 by May 26 for 10% off early registration!
Share this with someone who might benefit!
Looking to make a difference this summer? We’re also welcoming virtual volunteers! Get in touch to learn more about how you can bring joy, connection, and community to someone’s day—right from your own home.
We are offering meaningful, virtual, and tailor-made volunteer opportunities based on your availability and skill set.
Sign up as a volunteer here: https://friendshipcircle.com/friendship-circle-online/summer-camp/
Let’s make this summer one to remember.
Because friendship should have no barriers.
To hear the famous knock-knock joke, I guess you’ll have to join us for summer camp. Feel free to contact us at [email protected]
Such an important initiative!!
The work you do for the community is incredible.