By Tanya Buresh-Werby, Assistant Director, FCVA

Throughout the 2025–2026 program year, Friendship Circle of Virginia continues to expand its role as a connector within the Richmond community, advancing its mission of building a more inclusive community, one friendship at a time. This work is driven by a network of partnerships that open doors for individuals with disabilities and their families, while creating meaningful opportunities for people of all abilities to come together.

One example of this approach in action is Teen Scene, developed in partnership with the Virginia Down Syndrome Association. Designed as a social space for teens with and without disabilities, the program offers natural, low-pressure opportunities for connection. 

Early gatherings, including a movie night and game day, have created space for friendships to form organically, with an emphasis on building confidence and relationships that extend beyond the program itself.

This focus on connection also spans generations. Through its growing Senior Circle initiative, Friendship Circle is working alongside Jewish Family Services and Congregation Or Atid to create opportunities for seniors to engage, connect, and build meaningful relationships. The program reflects an ongoing effort to reduce isolation and ensure that a sense of community is accessible at every stage of life.

Partnerships also shape how Friendship Circle engages the broader community. During Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAAIM) this past February, the organization co-hosted a silent disco with the Weinstein JCC, bringing together Friendship Circle families and the greater Jewish community. 

Additional programming also included a Purim Sensory Hour, offering an inclusive and accessible way to experience the holiday. Programs like these continue to expand the reach of inclusive experiences across Richmond.

Some of the year’s key collaborative events include the 3rd Annual RVA Adaptive Sports Day, created alongside Jacob’s Chance and Sportable, taking place on August 30. The event gives participants hands-on opportunities to explore adaptive sports in a supportive environment, with a focus on confidence, independence, and fun.

At the same time, Friendship Circle remains focused on supporting families. Through its Moms’ Night Out events, developed in partnership with All Needs Planning, the Virginia Down Syndrome Association, Carroll Compass Consulting, and Jacob’s Chance, mothers of children with disabilities are given space to connect, recharge, and have fun! Building on this momentum, the organization is expanding its parent programming with a dedicated Dad’s event this June.

Additional partnerships continue to broaden access to inclusive experiences. Through its work with Goldfish Swim School, Friendship Circle offers adaptive swim opportunities that promote water safety in a supportive, sensory-friendly setting.

The upcoming Friendship Café Pop-Up will introduce a new kind of experience. In partnership with the Weinstein JCC, the initiative provides adults with disabilities the opportunity to gain hands-on vocational experience while actively contributing to a shared community space where the community is invited to come in, enjoy the space, and purchase food and beverages. The café is centered on creating meaningful vocational opportunities and fostering a sense of purpose and connection.

Together, these partnerships tell a larger story of collaboration and shared purpose. Each one strengthens Friendship Circle’s ability to create spaces where people feel valued, connected, and included.

Looking ahead, the organization remains focused on deepening existing relationships while continuing to build new ones, including expanded opportunities for Young Adult Division (YAD) through collaboration with Jewish VCU. As the year continues, one thing remains clear: strong partnerships are at the heart of lasting impact, helping Friendship Circle bring its mission to life in ways that are both meaningful and enduring.

A reminder that Friendship Circle’s 5th Annual Disability Inclusion Day, which is in partnership with the Richmond Flying Squirrels, will take place on Sunday, May 10, at Carmax Park. This inclusive baseball game brings together individuals of all abilities, families, and community members. Free tickets are available at inclusiondayrva.com.

Friendship Circle of Virginia is a nonprofit organization fostering friendships and social inclusion for individuals with and without disabilities. Our free programs, like Birthday Circle, Friends@Home, and Teen Scene, build community, connection, and joy, one friendship at a time.