About Us

We are dedicated to building a community where individuals of all abilities are included, supported, and celebrated. Through meaningful friendships, impactful programs, and a shared commitment to inclusion, we bring together children, families, volunteers, and supporters to create a seamless circle of connection and belonging.

OUR MISSION

We Grow Friendships

The Friendship Circle’s mission is (1) to provide Jewish children & individuals of all abilities with a full range of Judaic, social, recreational, and educational experiences; (2) to provide their parents with respite and support; and (3) to enrich, inspire, and motivate Jewish teenagers through sharing of themselves with others. The Friendship Circle is made up of five parts: children, volunteers, parents, staff, and supporters. The true beauty of the Circle is how we all link together to form a seamless circle of friendship.

Our Vision

We envision a world where individuals of all abilities and their families are accepted, included, and befriended so they can become successful members of society. To create this world, we aim to foster an environment where these individuals and families are given the support and love they need.

In addition to supporting families and their children with diverse abilities, the Friendship Circle endeavors to empower teens to take an active role in the wider Jewish community.

Through our variety of programs, we hope to create a new generation of leaders who will make the world a better place.

Meet the Team

Rabbi Michy Rav-Noy

Co-Founder | Executive Director

Miriam Rav-Noy

Co-Founder | Program Director

Jen Weber

Family Intake Specialist and Funding Manager

Doonie Mishulovin

Torah Social Director

Family Programming

Chanie Lazaroff

Community Liaison | Family Programming | MVP

Racheli Sabbagh

Camp Director | Special Events | Recreational Program Coordinator

Luba Labkowski

Friends at Home Coordinator

Erika Myles

Adult Day Program Coordinator

Isabel Gemara

Director of Development | Local Volunteer Manager

Liam Kurkus

Volunteer Manager | Marketing & Communications

Shayna Harris-Cheskes

Office Manager

⁠Sarah Pape

Data Entry Operator

Aidel Heller

Shlucha for Volunteers & Adult Day Program

Risha Nemes

Shlucha for Volunteers & Adult Day Program

Dinah Leffert

Creative Art Development

Non-Discriminatory Statement

FCLA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender (although some of our programs are exclusively for boys or girls), age, nationality, disability, marital status, orientation, in any of its activities, services, or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.