The newly launched Circle of Friends Bar/Bat Mitzvah Volunteer Program (MVP) is designed to give students preparing for their bar/bat mitzvah a meaningful way to give to others. Through hands-on volunteering at events hosted by Circle of Friends, a group for children and teens with special needs, the b’nai mitzvah student will come to understand the importance of giving back to the community and the impact they can have on others. At the completion of their volunteer efforts, students will receive a certificate documenting their involvement in the program.

The first Bar/Bat Mitzvah Volunteer orientation session will be held Wednesday, August 19, 5 – 6:30 p.m., at Beth Israel of Westport/Norwalk, 40 King Street, Norwalk; and will feature “Sushi & Shakes,” a team-building games and workshops. A parent Q&A period will be held at 5 p.m.

For more information or to register online: (203) 293-8837, circlefriendsct@gmail.com, www.circleoffriendsct.org.