(Courtesy of Valley Chabad) On Sunday, March 10, Valley Chabad’s Friendship Circle spent a day of giving at the Veterans Home in Paramus. Over 50 children and teen volunteers came to the Veterans Home in Paramus to bring smiles to the veterans there.

The children and teens traveled from Woodcliff Lake to package the special teddy bear gifts for over 200 residents. They wrapped it together with a thank you note, thanking the veterans for serving our country! Each bear was then handed out by all the volunteers to each veteran.

Friendship Circle is a meaningful program that pairs teenage volunteers with children with special needs. This program reaches out and extends warmth, friendship and support to children and their families. The teenagers learn the value of giving and cherish the experience of making a difference in a child’s life.

This event was a joint program with the Bear Givers Foundation. Abrah Sprung joined and represented Bear Givers at this special afternoon. Bear Givers is a organization inspired by the adage that it’s better to give than to receive. Bear Givers believe that the altruism of some can exponentially affect the lives of many. Their mission is to bring joy to those in need and to enable those in need to feel the pride and pleasure of giving to others.

Together they hope to impact their future by making a difference in the lives of children and teens all around and helping them to form a special bond.

For more information about joining Valley Chabad’s Friendship Circle as a participant, volunteer or supporter, please contact the director, Estie Orenstein, at 201-476-0157 or email [email protected].