A Future with Purpose at the Soul Center

For many families, the journey does not end when childhood does. It simply changes.

At age 21, when school ends, programs wind down, and the structure that once filled each day begins to fade, adults with special needs are often left with fewer opportunities for connection, purpose and growth. For many families, it is a transition that can feel uncertain and, at times, isolating.

Friendship Circle is working to change that.

On March 19, the organization took a major step forward, celebrating the purchase of a nearly 20,000 square foot building adjacent to LifeTown that will soon become the Soul Center, a dedicated space designed to help adults with special needs continue building lives of dignity, independence and belonging.

Since 2019, LifeTown has been home to thousands of children, teens and adults with special needs. To kick off this new chapter, donors and families attended a beautiful cocktail reception in the future home of the Soul Center. Guests eagerly explored the facility, envisioning the much-needed adult programming on the horizon.

“The purchase of the Soul Center building is a remarkable milestone for our community,” said David Orbach, President of Friendship Circle. “We feel blessed to have the opportunity to create a dedicated space for adults right next door to LifeTown, building a true campus of inclusion and opportunity for every stage of life.”

Surrounded by artistic installations created by adult participants and enjoying an impressive spread of sushi, charcuterie and wine, guests were inspired by the inventive vision for the space.

“I remember many years ago, sitting in a presentation that Friendship Circle gave about its plans for LifeTown,” said Robin Spiro. Her adult son, Larry, has participated in Friendship Circle programs since he was a child. “They were showing videos of all the different features and I felt myself tear up. It was so inspiring and I had the same feeling as I learned about the Soul Center.”

Fellow parent Avi Shua said, “Attending the opening of the Soul Center was a truly moving experience. We have a 19-year-old who is transitioning from his teens into young adulthood, and knowing he will now have a dedicated, welcoming place to go and be truly included means the world to our family.”

Many Friendship Circle participants begin attending events and programs at a young age. But as they transition into adulthood, they yearn for a place of their own. The Soul Center will fulfill that need and become integrated into a comprehensive Friendship Circle campus, adding an adult destination to the already existing LifeTown and outdoor sports complex.

“The adults don’t want to be with the little kids anymore. They want to feel like adults,” said Susan Helweil. Her adult son, Eric, is both a participant and a LifeTown volunteer. “Eric needs a place to call home when there is downtime, a separate space for adults to socialize. It’s crucial that people realize why this is so important for our future. The little kids will be big kids before you know it.”

The Soul Center is being designed to be outward-facing. By welcoming the broader community into spaces like the restaurant and shared programs, it aims to create everyday opportunities for interaction, understanding and inclusion.

 “There is such a lack of services for adults with disabilities,” said Spiro. “It’s just wonderful to see such a well-conceived wide range of options to meet the needs of the people in the community. I am very excited to see it all roll out.”

The center will include programs that emphasize community contribution. Through the Mitzvah Center and Kindness Kitchen, participants will prepare and distribute meals and packages for individuals and families in need. A greenhouse will give participants the opportunity to grow produce that will be used in the restaurant and meal programs, creating a full cycle of learning and giving.

“I am really impressed with the space. I had no idea how big it is,” said Jodi Zwain. Her adult son, Max, has been attending Friendship Circle programs since he was a child. “We would like Max to be more social, and I want him to feel like he has a purpose. The Soul Center will provide variety and flexibility. Participants can test out different skills and build upon their interests. It will open up a whole new world for them and expand their circles.”

The Soul Center aims to grow Friendship Circle’s programming right along with its participants. As needs change, so will the opportunities the Soul Center offers. The goal is to create a structured yet flexible environment, allowing each person to thrive at their own pace.

Even with a number of respected adult programs in the area, the need remains significant. Families continue to seek more opportunities, greater flexibility, and settings that reflect the varied strengths, interests, and goals of adults with special needs.

“Adults need a setting that reflects their stage of life, their strengths, their goals and their future,” said Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum, CEO of Friendship Circle. “They need a place where they can continue to grow, build friendships, develop confidence, contribute in meaningful ways, and feel a true sense of belonging.”

With a goal to open in 2027, the Soul Center is about inclusion and integration of the larger community. Like LifeTown, the Soul Center will be a beacon of light, uniting all abilities under one roof, making all who walk through its doors feel not only welcome, but seen and valued.