Friendship Circle to host Walk-a-thon

The Conejo Valley Friendship Circle, a local nonprofit organization that pairs teenage volunteers with special needs children, will host a Walk-A-Thon from 1 to 4 p.m. Sun., March 26 at the Agoura High School track, 28545 W. Driver Ave., Agoura Hills.

Through the Friendship Circle, teens develop friendships and share activities with children with Down's syndrome, autism, attention deficient disorder and other emotional or physical challenges. Families of special needs children also receive support in the program.

The money raised from the Walk-A-Thon will help underwrite the teens' training and support other child-centered activities, including special outings, fitness programs, camps, fairs and festivals.

Currently 125 families in the Conejo and West San Fernando valleys with special needs children participate in the group and 250 teenagers are volunteers.

"Many organizations focus on providing therapeutic care," said Rochel Bryski, director of The Friendship Circle. "We offer love, companionship, friendship and activities that are child-driven. Teens can reach children in ways that professionals, or even family members, cannot. The program also has a profound effect on the teenagers themselves by instilling within them the values of giving and gratitude."

The first lap of the 5k walk will begin at 1:15 p.m. for special needs children and their families. Once the first lap is completed, children may take part in face painting, a moon bounce and other activities. Barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers will be served. Robin Felton is the mother of nine-year-old Jonah who has autism. Jonah has participated in The Friendship Circle for two years. Once a week, teen volunteers Sarah Weisman and Jenny Silver, seniors at Oak Park High School, spend an hour with Jonah.

"Sarah and Jenny are like Jonah's big sisters," said Felton. "They play games with him, sing songs, decorate cookies, go to the park; it's whatever he wants to do. They give him unconditional love."

Felton's two other children also have the opportunity to join in. "It's good for Jonah's siblings to see Jonah treated as a friend, as just a normal kid."

"Being with Jonah is pretty amazing," said Silver. "We see what the power of friendship can do. After the third meeting, Jonah knew our names and felt completely comfortable with us."

"Jonah has given me a new appreciation for life," said Weisman. "When he's holding your hand, you know you may not be changing the world, but you're having a positive effect on a child and his family."

Silver and Weisman will be participating in the Walk-A-Thon as Team Oak Park.

The Friendship Circle is currently signing up walkers for the event.

Those who cannot participate but want to make a donation may visit www.friendshipwalk.org to pledge to a specific team or call (818) 865-2233.