FIRST ANNUAL FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE WALK
DRAWS MORE THAN 700 PARTICIPANTS
Boxer Dmitriy Salita Entertains Fans of All Sizes
More than 700 participants gathered for the first annual “Friendship Walk” on September 9, 2007, at Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange. Walkers were able to choose the one or five mile course, both of which enabled participants to enjoy the zoo, including the new Reptile Hall.
Undefeated Jewish boxer, the “Hebrew Hammer,” otherwise known as Dmitriy Salita, was on hand to motivate and warm up the walkers. Salita also sparred on stage with some of the walkers while offering professional boxing tips. Entertainment by Gregg Wall, a scavenger hunt, tattoos and refreshments added to the fun.
The event benefited the Friendship Circle, a project of the Rabbinical College of America-Lubavitch programs, which offers social and educational programming to children with special needs and daily respite to their families. The organization’s services are provided through a corps of trained teen volunteers who dedicate their time on a weekly basis. The Friendship Circle is a Beneficiary Agency of the United Jewish Communities of MetroWest.
"There are many great organizations out there but I have to say that the Friendship Circle is truly exceptional," according to Ellen Zimiles, a parent of a child in the program and CEO of Daylight Forensic and Advisory, LLC, one of the Friendship Circle Walk's sponsors. "It's made a huge difference in our lives. Every interaction, whether it's a weekly home visitation, Jewish holiday program or Sports Night, has a significant impact on the lives of children with special needs and their families, by providing them with social opportunities in a nurturing and inclusive environment."
“It was really uplifting to see the demonstration of support at our first annual walk, which exceeded all expectations,” according to Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum, executive director of the Friendship Circle. “Beyond the fundraising aspect, the event brought together the circle of participants, families and volunteers for a day of community awareness and solidarity. And most importantly, it was loads of fun!”
