Circles of Friends

Forming A Circle of Friends

“I don’t think you focus on what you’re getting . . . I think that’s part of what happens in Circles.”
    --- Eunice, A Circle member

When someone with a physical and/or developmental disability requests to have a Circle of Friends, one of our Bridge Ministries Chaplains explores with the person whether or not this would be the most appropriate way to address the person’s needs. If they both decide that this is a good idea, a facilitator for the Circle is sought either from among friends the person already has, or a volunteer is recruited by Bridge.

A Chaplain on staff carefully matches the person with a disability (focus person) with the would-be facilitator, taking into account their mutual interests, geographical proximity, scheduling preferences, etc. Then the staff member introduces the focus person and the potential facilitator and they explore the feasibility of forming a Circle together. Taking the time to develop a meaningful relationship is important and the Chaplain continues to meet with both parties until they feel comfortable with their emerging friendship. When the timing is right and the facilitator has learned more about the focus person and about that person’s dreams and goals, together they plan the first introductory gatherings of the Circle. Invitations are sent to the friends of the person with a disability. Sometimes the person has no one to invite. In this case, Bridge would try to recruit a few volunteers for the person for possible inclusion in his/her Circle.

Facilitators of Circles of Friends are supported by the Bridge staff at monthly gatherings where mutual community building and facilitation-related topics are discussed.

For more information please visit Circles of Friends, Dreams Coming True, Circle Volunteers, Facilitator Training, and Award Winning Model.

If you are someone with a physical and/or developmental disability who would like to have a Circle please contact Rev. Dr. David Emery at (425) 885-1006 ext. 112 or email him at ChaplainI@bridgemin.org.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Circle facilitator or as a member of a Circle please visit Volunteers and How to Apply or contact Colleen Dodson at (425) 885-1006 ext 113 or e-mail her at volunteer@bridgemin.org.

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