WESTPORT – More than 130 teen volunteers from all across Fairfield County were honored at the Evening of Recognition Dinner on Sunday, April 2 at The Inn at Longshore in Westport, hosted by Circle of Friends. The organization trains teen volunteers to interact and form lasting friendships with children, teens and young adults with special needs, hosting many events throughout the year.

At the dinner attended by 300 guests, Circle of Friends founding director Freida Hecht urged the teens to continue their vital work on behalf of children with special needs. Quoting the Lubavitcher Rebbe she said, “We really need to see the inner souls of these children, for these special souls are a gift to the world.”

Hecht spoke of the importance of mainstreaming these children and their families into the Jewish community, which Circle of Friends facilitates. The evening’s program was also highlighted by greetings from Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling and Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe. Local clergy from Westport and Norwalk were also in attendance.

In addition, 12 high school seniors from Westport Staples, Weston High, Wilton High and Norwalk High received Fellowship Awards for their combined 3,000 volunteer “Friendship Hours.”

For more information on Circle of Friends, contact Freida Hecht at (203) 293-8837 or cof@circleoffriendsct.org; or visit circleoffriendsct.org..

CAP: At the Circle of Friends dinner: (l to r) Freida and Rabbi Yehoshua Hecht; Guests of Honor Jon and PJ Ross of Westport; Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe, Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling and his wife. Photo credit: Regina Madwed.