Friendship Circle walks the walk

The Conejo Valley Friendship Circle will hold its second annual Friendship Walk from 1 to 4 p.m. Sun., March 18 in Agoura Hills to raise funds to support programs for special needs children and their families.

The walk will begin at Canwood Street, off the 101 Freeway at the Reyes Adobe exit, and end at Sumac Park, 6000 Calmfield Ave.

Don Stark of "That '70s Show" will serve as one of the grand marshals, and the walk will culminate with a festival including music, refreshments and entertainment.

The Friendship Circle allows teenage volunteers to visit children with special needs for play dates in their homes once a week.

"Special needs kids want to have fun and have friends just like other children," said Chaya Hoch, one of the circle's program coordinators. "The Friendship Circle creates those special bonds. Teens connect with children in ways that adults and therapists cannot."

Chana Stery Bryski, 18, has been a friend to Miranda Berenstein, 9, for four years.

"The experience with Miranda has changed my life," said Bryski. "Miranda is so optimistic and always has a smile on her face. She is waiting at the door for us and is so excited when we visit. Her smile makes me smile."

The Conejo Valley Friendship Circle is nonsectarian and nondenominational. Its programs are open to all and are free to qualifying families.

The money raised from the 5K Friendship Walk will help fund child-centered activities.

To donate or for more information, call the Friendship Circle at (818) 865-2233 or visit www.friendshipwalk.org.