Teens Volunteer During Break

For those of us that think teens are self centered, think again. They can be going to Florida, skiing or doing many other fun things, but this group of special teenagers chose to do something different this winter break.

Over 35 teens from the Monmouth County devoted a week of their winter break to providing companionship and a good time to children with special needs.

From Sunday, December 23rd through Thursday, December 27th each of the teens were paired up with a child with special needs for the week as they join the Friendship Circle Winter Camp. The camp included field trips as well as a host of creative and recreational activities including sports, arts and crafts and music.

The program ran from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. every day. These kids don’t have the regular play dates and many are not able to go out and go skiing like their friends and siblings. Many of their parents are all working and have a very difficult time finding a sitter that watch their child because of their special needs and the Friendship Circle Winter Camp fills that void.

While directed and coordinated by a staff of teachers and professionals the vitality of the entire camp experience is driven by the teenage volunteers. After all, these particular teenagers are no strangers to the children on whose behalf they joyfully give of their free time and energy throughout the year.

The Winter Camp is a setting in which the bond becomes that much more animated and pronounced. In an environment permeated completely with laughter, music and invigorating spirit – on busses, on trampolines and at Monmouth County attractions – the volunteers have yet another dimension through which to connect with these special children.

The children, their families and the teenage volunteers; all benefit in their own special – and deeply memorable – way from the Friendship Circle’s Winter Camp experience.