Do Amazing Things and Find New Friends at the Philly Friendship Walk on October 18

With ziplines overhead, and skateboarders skating by, this is more than a fundraising walk to jot on the calendar. On Sunday, October 18, 2015, the Friendship Circle Philadelphia Region South will be hosting their 8th annual Philly Friendship Walk and Fun Fair. The event runs from 1 pm to 3:30 pm at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (272 South Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA). All proceeds go back to the Friendship Circle Philadelphia Region South.

The Friendship Circle, founded by Lubavitch Circle in 2004, connects teenage volunteers to youth with special needs. Their goal for the Philly Friendship Walk this year is $150,000! Start a team, and help create awareness for children with special needs.

Participants will enjoy entertainment provided by the Baal Shem Tov Chasidic Rock Band while they stretch before the walk kicks off at 1:30 pm. Reach out to the Achilles Runners during this time, an international organization that works with all types of disabilities in order to help them succeed athletically. Volunteers will be running and walking with the participants as well. Those participating in the walk will have the choice of a 5K loop, or a family friendly 1.5 K path and scavenger hunt.

At 2 pm, the Fun Fair begins! The Philadelphia Mobile Zipline Company will be in attendance, offering a free zipline experience to all participants. The zipline will be 28 feet from the ground, and all participants must be able to climb a staircase to the top of the zipline. “We want to give the walkers an experience they wouldn’t otherwise encounter. The goal is really to bring some smiles,” owner Jim Caprio said.

For individuals who would prefer to stay grounded, AJ Kohn, ranked second in the United States Pro Freestyle Competition for two years in a row, will be doing a show and giving free skateboarding lessons. “I want these kids to know that skateboarding is for everyone,” AJ explained. AJ and his team will be providing skateboards and helmets during the lesson.

Prizes will also be given out to the top fundraisers and teams.

“Friendship Circle makes these kids feel like they’re a part of something bigger than themselves. This is a chance to do amazing things with amazing people. We hope to see you there,” said Program Director Chani Baram.

To start a team, visit: www.phillyfriendshipwalk.com/Account/Register. Participants may sign up through their Facebook account or e-mail address. Once the registration is complete, use the sign in to invite other teammates and create a personal fundraising link.

ABOUT FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE

The Friendship Circle Philadelphia Region South connects teens and young adults to youth with special needs and their families, offering a full range of Jewish and social experiences. Together, they develop friendships while enjoying creative arts group activities, Jewish holiday celebrations, weekly playdates and more. These mutually rewarding relationships foster the development of a caring, supportive community. For more information, visit ww.phillyfriendship.com