Winter Camp Wraps Up 2024 with Joy, Laughter and Memories

Friendship Circle closed out an incredible year with a heartwarming and activity-packed Winter Camp that left campers and families beaming with joy! For 50 children and their families, Friendship Circle’s Allie’s Winter Camp wasn’t just a fun break from routine—it was a magical week of connection, growth and joy that brightened their Chanukah holiday.

With kids off from school for winter break, the halls of LifeTown buzzed with excitement as children with special needs and their siblings came together for a week of fun, learning and celebration. Each day was filled with engaging activities like music, art, sports, culinary classes and even swimming. Adding to the thrill, older campers had their first experience at LifeTown’s brand-new bowling center, where cheers echoed as pins went flying.

“It’s really the only structure available to carry them over during the school break,” said Mindy Lazaroff, a parent whose children attended camp. “Camp was amazing and really enhanced Chanukah week for our family.”

Beyond the daily activities, Winter Camp brought a special spark with interactive and festive programming. Campers roamed the LifeTown Shoppes, making purchases and building real-life skills in a fun, supportive environment. A mesmerizing balloon and magic show had the young audience wide-eyed and grinning as they watched spellbinding tricks and creative balloon animals.

The spirit of Chanukah was woven into each camp day. Campers crafted custom dreidels in art, fried donuts in culinary classes, and each received a handpicked Chanukah gift thanks to generous donations from Temple Beth Shalom.

Winter Camp’s success was amplified by the incredible support of students from the Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School in Livingston. Every day, one grade from the school dedicated their time to assisting campers, creating a warm and inclusive environment for all.

“We are so grateful for the incredible support from the RKYHS students who helped make Winter Camp such a tremendous success,” said Chavi Rosenblum, camp director. “Their enthusiasm and dedication during this busy season allowed us to offer an unforgettable experience for our campers. The joy they brought to the children and the seamless way they supported our staff truly highlight the value of this partnership.”

RKYHS students had a blast volunteering and making new friends at Winter Camp. Students ran the shops in LifeTown, swam with Friendship Circle participants in the zero-entry pool, engaged in the sensory gym, and enjoyed crafts and other activities together.

“It was incredibly touching to see so many teens working with our special kids,” Lazaroff shared. “Their time and effort made a difference—not only bridging the gap during the school break but also bringing so much happiness to the kids. I’m sure their parents are proud, but as a mom on the receiving end, I can’t thank them enough.”

By the end of the week, campers had made new friends, formed special bonds, and created cherished memories to carry with them into the new year. Friendship Circle’s Winter Camp stands as a testament to the power of community, compassion, and joy—all essential in creating a brighter future for children of all abilities.