Christian Charity - Circles of Friends

Non profit Christian charitable organization

Circles of Friends

. . . Building Community, Actualizing Dreams

"The hardest thing about having a disability, is not so much the disability itself, but the loneliness and isolation that often come with it." . . a familiar and shocking comment by persons with disabilities.

It was precisely because of this pervasive need for community-building that Bridge first became involved in the Circles of Friends Program in 1995. Ever since, we have been privileged to wonder at the awesome results of enabling relationships of respect to develop among persons we serve who have disabilities and other members of church and community.

"We cannot be human alone. We can only be human together."
--Archbishop Desmond Tutu in Seattle address May 2002

What Is a Circle of Friends?
A Circle of Friends is a small gathering of individuals who build a relationship with a person who has a disability to celebrate his or her life. Through stories, shared ideas, encouragement and outings, persons feel valued and loved. They find themselves moving toward achieving their hopes and dreams. They learn that they matter to others. It is through such relationships with others that a person can celebrate his/her full identity and dignity and come to embrace the abundance of life.

While the focus of Circles is intended for the person with a disability for whom it has been called, the Circle members find themselves amazed by how much their own lives become enriched through connections with others.

Typically, Circles meet monthly or every six weeks, although a few meet less frequently, depending on the wishes of the people involved.

Types of Circles of Friends
Each Circle is as unique as the person for whom it has been called. No two Circles are exactly alike. They can span interests ranging:

from purely social get-togethers such as going out to dinner or to some event, such as a movie, a concert in the park , the zoo, or a ferry boat ride;
• to problem- solving involving independent living, job or volunteer openings;
• to advocating for the inclusion of the focus person in a local congregation.

"At some point in our lives, most of us experience what it's like to feel alone. So many persons with disabilities feel tremendous isolation and loneliness everyday with little or no hope of that changing. We have an incredible opportunity with Circles of Friends to bring that needed connection with others into their lives and to reap the reward of genuine friendship in the process"
--Tronda, Circle facilitator

Circles of Friends are important!

They help alleviate the isolation of persons with disabilities.
They help persons feel valued and affirmed.
They provide the occasion for everyone to give the gift of him/herself to others.
The presence of a Circle in someone’s life can serve as a safety net.
The Circle can help the person with a disability advocate for him/herself.
Talking over one’s concerns and brainstorming with others often leads to alternative solutions.
Celebrating life has a profound effect on the lives of everyone involved.
Circles are not just important for the focus person, the person with a disability, but have proven to be equally so for all the participants.

How Do I get more information about Circles?
Please visit the following:

Or you can contact Rev. Dr. David Emery at (425) 885-1006 ext. 112 or email him at ChaplainI@bridgemin.org.

If you are interested in making a tax-deductible contribution to Bridge, please visit our Donate page for more information.

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