Generations Unite at FC5kRun and FCwalk
Each year, thousands of people arrive at LifeTown for the much-anticipated FC5kRun and FCwalk. At the heart of this high-energy morning are the families and friends who unite across generations to support programs for children, teens and adults with special needs.
First-time participant Cantor Emily Simkin arrived with 14 enthusiastic members of her family, all in support of her son, Tal.
“We are so thrilled to be a part of this incredible community,” said Cantor Simkin. “Tal participates in Torah Circle every Sunday and this is such an amazing community of so much support. We’re thrilled to be walking with my husband, Adam, grandparents, aunts and uncles.”
On Sunday, October 25, 2,000 people gathered beneath a clear blue sky for a 5K race followed by a joyous walk in celebration of all that Friendship Circle has achieved over the past year.
The event raised over $300,000 to support Friendship Circle’s programs and foster greater acceptance and understanding of the unique needs and amazing abilities of individuals with special needs. Those funds help sustain year-round programs where participants build friendships and find the same sense of belonging celebrated throughout event day.
Many teams included children, parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, all coming together to support the people they love. At the start of the 5K race, Jordan Sanders, a 13-year-old Friendship Circle volunteer, was excited to run with his father, Josh.
“It’s really nice to help make a difference in the world,” said Jordan. “It’s so nice to do this with my father today. It’s a great bonding opportunity.”
For some participants, that circle of support extended to caregivers who have become family. Twenty-one-year-old Friendship Circle participant Ella Jacobson was able to compete in the 5K race for the first time with the help of her beloved nanny, Shira May, who triumphantly pushed Ella across the finish line in her wheelchair as her mother cheered from the sidelines.
“I love watching her participate and her smile just exudes happiness,” said Ella’s mother, Tamara Jacobson. “Friendship Circle means everything to us. This event brings the whole community together. It’s a wonderful experience that promotes empathy and perspective.”
After the last runner crossed the finish line, the excitement continued as the crowd gathered to kick off the walk. Inspirational speeches from Livingston Mayor Shawn Klein, Friendship Circle Teen President Daniella Barness, and Team Captain Desmond Stone, highlighted the purpose behind the celebration.
“Part of our job in governing Livingston is to make sure that organizations like this can thrive and do as much good as they can for our community,” said Klein. “Livingston is so proud to have Friendship Circle here.”
An especially poignant moment unfolded as Barness spoke about how Friendship Circle has made a difference in the life of her brother with special needs.
“I saw my brother surrounded by friends, laughing and having fun,” said Barness. “Just like I did with my own friends. Now that I’m older, I appreciate everything that went into creating those moments. Friendship Circle gives people a place to make friends, try new things, build confidence, and develop relationships that grow with them.”
Stone added, “We’re here to celebrate positivity and creativity.” He then cut the ribbon, officially signaling the start of the walk. The crowd cheered as participants united for one very special cause, colorful team signs waving in the air.
Stuart Shoengold was surrounded by his whole family, who had come to support his 46-year-old son Jeffrey, a regular Friendship Circle participant.
“We have multiple generations here,” said Shoengold. “It’s important to walk with our entire family because we need to support one another. Friendship Circle is great for the community and they do the most wonderful job.”
Cantor Simkin commented, “It means so much to us to walk as our entire family because we walk through all of life together. Our village is in this with us together and our extended village is with us here today too, so it means a lot.”
At the conclusion of the walk, participants were treated to an action-packed afternoon filled with a variety of entertaining activities. Children delighted in a petting zoo, pony rides, a bounce house, face painting, train rides and a carousel. A wacky science show kept the crowd laughing and mesmerized. For participants who wanted a bit more action, an obstacle course offered plenty of challenges. In between activities, there was delicious food to enjoy, including pickles, hot dogs and knishes, along with drinks to keep everyone refreshed.
The day also reflected the dedication of the volunteers whose efforts helped make the event a welcoming experience for everyone.
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of lead sponsors Wickner Properties and DCH Millburn Audi, and additional sponsors Kushner Companies, Vanco Construction, SJ Health Insurance Advocates, Air Group, Somerset Regal Bank, G&S Technologies, Metro Swag, and Words Bookstore.
Every member of Friendship Circle is made stronger by the individuals who support them. That support is the foundation of the welcoming home that Friendship Circle has built through innovative and inclusive programming. At the FC5kRun and FCwalk, that strong sense of belonging was evident as generations of families, friends and neighbors walked arm in arm, cheering each other on along the way.
