Friendship Circle of Michigan

06/10/2026

Joining Friendship Circle is easier than you think. 💜

Whether you're looking for programs, friendship, support, or simply want to learn more about what we do, we're here to help guide you through the process.

Give us a call at 248-788-7878 or email [email protected], and our team will help you find the programs and opportunities that are the best fit for your family.

We can't wait to meet you.

06/09/2026

In the middle of a painting session, I looked at my canvas and said, “I don’t like this… yet.”

Carlie clocked that and ask her “Are you practicing what you preach?”

They were right!

At Soul Studio, we remind each other that it’s okay not to love your work yet. You can be honest about the messy middle and still keep going.

On the hard days, remember: practice what you preach, take a breath, and give yourself a little more “yet.”

06/09/2026

Walk4Friendship 2026 is coming; mark your calendars. 🎈

August 30th. One day. $1.25 million for the thousands we serve and for a growing community that deserves not to wait.

This walk funds job training and employment at Dakota Bakery and Soul Cafe. It supports artists in the Vera and Joseph Dresner Soul Studio. It powers the Fetter Children and Teen Division's weekly programs of life skills, friendship, and joy. It fuels the Dr. Stanley and Lenore Dorfman Community Inclusion Program. It sends campers to Rubin Family Summer Camp. And so much more.

Save the date to walk with us. And in the meantime, register, fundraise, and ask 2–3 people in your circle to donate.

Friendship, acceptance, and meaningful employment shouldn’t be put on hold.

06/04/2026

School's out, and what a year it was!! 🎉

Over 4,000 students visited Elkus Village Lessons for Life this school year, filling our village with curiosity, confidence, laughter, and learning.

Every day brought new discoveries, big accomplishments, and moments that reminded us why this place is so special.

"Thank you so much for letting this happen. I hope many more kids can experience the magic in that building!" – Brendan, Walled Lake Elementary

To every student, teacher, aide, school district, volunteer, and supporter who joined us this year: thank you.

We'll see you next school year for even more learning, growth, and fun!

06/04/2026

12 days until the Rubin Family Summer Camp begins at Friendship Circle! 🌞

We are ready to create long-lasting friendships and an unforgettable summer. For many kids with special needs, this is the one place where the world finally feels built just for them, accessible, joyful, and full of friends who get them.

Because of the Shay Ziff Sends a Kid to Camp Scholarship Fund, children who might’ve stayed home this summer instead get to belong here, all summer long.
Thank you for making these core memories possible.

Learn more about the Shay Ziff Sends a Kid to Camp Scholarship Fund here https://bit.ly/4emV1Wq

06/02/2026

Summer Camp is almost here! Volunteer this summer and give back, build friendships, and create unforgettable memories. Weekdays from June 15 through July 24, 2026.

Register here https://bit.ly/4u8aDSo

Teens can spend the summer making a difference while earning volunteer hours, gift cards, and lifelong memories.

06/01/2026

What an honor, thank you so much Detroit!

Being named Best Organization for People with Special Needs by Hour Detroit Magazine means the world to us, because it's really a win for every child, teen, and adult who's ever found their people here.

This happens because of YOU our Metro Detroit community who shows up, volunteers, donates, and cheers us on today and everyday.

See the full list and other winners on the link https://bit.ly/4urRGul

05/29/2026

The kitchen at Soul Cafe closed for the night but happily welcomed our Life Skills group for the evening. For a few hours, this class learned from the chefs at skills like chopping, stirring, tasting, and getting comfortable in a kitchen setting.

This is what our Pathways to Independence program looks like. It's more than a worksheet or a lecture. It's field trips and experiences that are teaching you something real.

Whether they're in a kitchen, a grocery store, or working through a budget at a classroom table, our Life Skills participants are building the kind of confidence that sticks with them long after their session ends. Interested in learning more? Reach out to learn more about fall program offerings.

05/28/2026

“He could walk in this building with his head held high.”

Lisa Gray Menuck shares what it has meant for her son Eli to grow up with the support, friendship, and community of Friendship Circle.

For so many families, finding a place where you are welcomed, celebrated, and understood changes everything. Not just for one person, but for the entire family. 💜

Want to help create that kind of community for more families? Join us as a volunteer, make a donation, or get involved with Friendship Circle today.

05/27/2026

Walk4Friendship is just around the corner, and this year you get to help us choose the official t-shirt design!

Take a peek at the designs in the video, then drop your vote in the comments: 1, 2, or 3 😄👇