Grant Miller and I were among the more than 1,000 children, teens, parents, grandparents and supporters who walked in the fourth annual Walking 4 Friendship on Sunday, Feb. 10. The 3K Walk and Carnival in Kendall benefited the Friendship Circle, a group that offers amazing programs for children with special needs.
It was so rewarding to see the happy faces of the children and families whose lives are touched by the activities and programs of the Friendship Circle, and the many teenage volunteers who are the lifeblood of the program’s success.
This year’s walk was bigger and better than ever. My hat is off to Rabbi Yossi Harlig, Nechama Harlig and Heather Utset for organizing this heartwarming annual event that brings the community together to benefit such a wonderful cause.
It was great to see several local organizations supporting this year’s efforts with sponsorship tables. It was fun to watch the children enjoying carnival rides and crafts. And, we all enjoyed the live entertainment on stage.
There was a rousing martial arts demonstration by Kia Kidz. The barbershop quartet style-group, the Singing Miamians of Pinecrest, was a big hit with the crowd. And, the children of the Friendship Circle’s guitar program, along with many others, gave memorable performances.
Honorary volunteer Alexis Greenberg, a young adult with autism, joined Nechama and this year’s top fundraiser, Joe Roisman of Perry Ellis International, to cut the ribbon and kick off the event. It truly was a powerful moment.
Grant and I want to thank everyone who supported us in our efforts to raise money for the Friendship Circle. The money raised is crucial to continuing this empowering program that makes a difference in the lives of children with special needs and their families.
For more information about the Friendship Circle program, call the office at 305-234-5654.