The Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh was established in 2006 to create a more inclusive community. Our programs engage over 550 youth and adults with diverse abilities in a wide range of social activities.

We aim to strengthen the Jewish community and Greater Pittsburgh by helping build friendships that break barriers. No fees are charged for our activities and learning and leadership opportunities for youth and adults of all abilities.

Our new hybrid programming model, developed to address the challenges of COVID-19, includes a variety of daily virtual activities, as well as safe, physically distanced social experiences over the summer, such as our walk-by “Story Stroll,” drive-in movies in our rear parking lot, a “Drive-By Carnival” in Schenley Park, weekly activity kits, and online summer camp.

Friendship Circle virtual programming highlights over the past several months:

We have engaged more than 250 participants of all ages in daily virtual programs and connections.
We have executed over 300 events and experiences, including art, yoga, dance, games, zoo tours, and more.
Our “Coffee with Friends” series brings members and staff together to enjoy a beverage and conversation in a weekly virtual meetup.
“Unwind with FC Moms” allows moms to relax and share their thoughts during this time, and we present mindfulness techniques and other tools to help each other through life’s challenges.
Our Friendship Fellows program, which creates in-office internship and employment opportunities for our adult members, has been translated to "Hellos with Fellows," thereby ensuring our older members remain connected.
We mail up to 30 birthday kits per month to members to ensure their birthdays are special.
Our Friendship Circle alumni – young adults and college students who participated when they were younger – are joining our efforts to connect friends despite physical distance.
Our Pen Pals program engages 46 friends through letter writing.

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