Walk4Friends Raises Over $130K for The Friendship Circle

Holmdel Mayor Patrick Impreveduto joined the fourth annual Walk4Friends on April 29 at Vonage Corporate Center in Holmdel. The goal of the walk was to raise funds and awareness for the Friendship Circle, a program that provides friendship for children with special needs.

According to organizers, more than 1,300 people attended.

“So many parents came over to us during the event to thank us for dedicating a special day to their children,” said Chanale Wolosow of the Chabad of Morganville and director of The Friendship Circle in Central New Jersey. The Friendship Circle extends a helping hand to children who have special needs, involving them in a full range of social, Judaic, and educational experiences, according to their website.

Walk4Friends kicked off the day with an opening ceremony and pep rally, including a group warm-up led by a New York Sports Club Fitness instructor, Vicki Eisen. The one-mile walk around the Vonage campus was led by the Marlboro High School marching band. After the walk, participants enjoyed great food, rides, games, and a featured show by “Wacky Chad.” Joining Impreveduto were Manalapan Mayor Susan Cohen and Colts Neck Mayor Jarret Engle.

“The outpouring of love from the community to support the Friendship Circle was truly amazing” said Manalapan Mayor Susan Cohen. “So many volunteers give of their time to make this program possible and so many more were responsible for the success of this important event.”

Volunteer Nate Cohen, a student of Marlboro High School who spoke during the opening ceremony shared "Through Friendship Circle, I have learned that the greatest gift one can receive is the gift of giving to others. Sam, my special friend has taught me everything I know about friendship".

Walk4Friends has raised over $130,000 toward their goal of $150,000 needed for Friendship Circle programming. The money raised go directly to fund the social and recreational programs for children with special needs.

To learn more about the organization, visit www.walk4friends.com or call 732-536-2319.