Cherished Friendships Begin at Summer Camp

Summer camp is synonymous with carefree days of sun, laughter, and fun-filled activities. The friendships formed at camp are what make the experience truly memorable. At Friendship Circle, building those connections is central to every program offered for children, teens and adults with special needs. Friendship Circle’s summer camp is no exception. For three weeks, younger participants enjoy a unique camp tailored to their interests and abilities, followed by an additional week designed for older participants.

“Unlike many other camps, each camper has at least one dedicated buddy, and often more, who experiences every activity alongside them, providing individualized support, encouragement, and friendship,” said Ellie Minsky, Friendship Circle Program Director. “Friendship Circle Camp allows individuals with unique abilities to enjoy a fun, meaningful summer just like their peers.”

“The peer volunteers and inclusivity at this camp are amazing,” said Alison L’Heureux, a one-on-one volunteer. “When participants walk through these doors, they are welcomed and loved just as they are.”

The friendships formed at camp extend beyond the campers themselves. Meaningful bonds also develop between campers and their volunteers. One such friendship began between teen volunteer, Jonah Toubes, and 16-year-old participant, Jacob. They met two years ago at camp and their bond has only strengthened with time.

“Many volunteers wanted to be paired with little kids, but I was paired with Jacob, who is older. After a while, I got to know him and he started to learn who I was,” said Toubes. “I feel a brotherly connection with him that’s developed over the years. He’s taught me patience and about what it means to have special needs.”

Mindy Lazaroff, Jacob’s mother, remarked, “For me, to see someone take so much interest in my child and to be so responsible, it just warmed my heart. Jonah’s a wonderful human being. I think that he is one in a million. His heart is so big and I hope that he knows how much he’s changed our family.”

This year, Toubes wanted to expand his role at camp by serving as a Friendship Circle intern and helping plan the summer program. Each week was designed around a theme, from sports and tie-dye to a carnival. Campers enjoyed a range of exciting activities, including swimming, arts and crafts, sports, and cooking. Participants also spent time at the LifeTown Shoppes, where they practiced everyday skills in a supportive setting.

“Seeing it all come together this week, I’m really starting to appreciate the work that I’ve done,” said Toubes. “Seeing all the campers follow the schedules that I made, it all feels really nice that people are enjoying it. This camp is designed for each and every participant. Everyone can go at their own pace.”

Special events added even more fun to the camp experience. A visit from the Kona Ice truck offered campers a refreshing treat, while a petting zoo gave them the opportunity to hold a bearded dragon, cuddle bunnies and ducklings, and feed goats. The camp also hosted a Bubbles and Dogs activity during which participants enjoyed outdoor bubbles alongside therapy dogs. Every activity at Friendship Circle camp provides an opportunity for campers to build relationships, and gain confidence and independence.

“For the longest time, Jacob didn’t have any interaction with children,” said Lazaroff. “For him to be able to form an attachment this way, with a boy his age, has really been life-changing for him. I’ve seen how it’s changed him to continue seeking out peers his own age, which I think is so invaluable.”

Minsky added, “The friendships formed between campers, volunteers, and staff are genuine, lasting, and unlike anything you can find anywhere else. Many of these connections continue, creating a strong sense of community and belonging that makes Friendship Circle Camp so special.” 

The impact of Friendship Circle Camp often continues long after the summer ends. Since the conclusion of camp, Toubes has started college. His experience at Friendship Circle helped inspire him to major in child development.

“Nothing else interested me as much as working with people with special needs,” said Toubes. “I want to make a difference and do something that leaves a mark.”

For the Lazaroff family, Toubes already has.