Paramus—For adults with special needs, finding a safe, welcoming opportunity to socialize can be tough. Stepping out for a night on the town is just not a simple option, especially for those in residential care facilities. Thanks to a unique partnership between two local Jewish organizations, Friendship Circle and J-ADD, Jewish group home residents in Bergen County enjoy social outings created just for them year-round. FC Adult, a program of Bergen County Friendship Circle, brings adults with developmental disabilities together for Jewish-themed social events.
“Everyone loves a night out,” said Zeesy Grossbaum, executive director of the Friendship Circle, which provides the programs, facilitators, and volunteers. “FC Adult events are upbeat parties, complete with dinner, music and fun activities for adults 21 and older. Participants get to meet new people, learn socialization skills and just have themselves a good time.”
Friendship Circle is a not-for-profit that connects volunteers with special needs individuals for fun and friendship. FC Adult events are facilitated by adult and college-aged volunteers from Bergen County in association with Jewish Association for Developmental Disabilities (J-ADD), a Hackensack-based organization that runs eight Bergen County group homes for adults aged 21 and up with developmental disabilities. The evening socials take place at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Paramus.
“We do all kinds of activities,” said Grossbaum, “from challah baking and havdalah workshops to Jewish crafts and science shows. We also do holiday enrichment programs such as bringing in a shofar factory for the High Holidays and a portable matzah bakery for Passover. Just last month we had an olive-pressing party for Chanukah, which included a full dairy dinner.”
While the activities vary each time, there’s always a musical component, including drumming. That’s especially important, according to J-ADD’s Associate Director, Varda Hager, who said the residents love it. “Music is an elixir. It just does something for clients who can’t verbalize or have behavior issues. They blossom and grow. And when they participate, as they do with drumming, it’s a double wow!”
FC Adult has become more and more popular since it began three years ago. The programs initially drew about 20-24 attendees but through word of mouth among J-ADD’s residents, these events soon became “the place to be.” Each event now hosts some 32-38 participants thanks to increased support from Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey.
Hager said the program is enriching for everyone involved, not just the residents. “Our staff enjoys seeing them get dressed up, go out and have fun,” said Hager. “And the volunteers are wonderful. They’re fully engaged and they look like they’re just having a ball.”
“What brings joy to our volunteers is bringing joy to others,” said Grossbaum. “That’s what giving back is all about.”
Those interested in volunteering for FC Adult and other Friendship Circle programs can learn more at www.BCFriendship.com.
