The Walk4Friendship event organized by Friendship House in Boca Raton represents a heartwarming example of community engagement and support for families with special needs children.
By holding this event for the second consecutive year at South County Regional Park, Friendship House not only aims to raise funds but also to increase awareness about the unique challenges and needs of children with special needs living in the area.
Rabbi Shaolom Kessler’s leadership as the executive director and organizer highlights the commitment of the organization to create inclusive, supportive environments where families can connect, share experiences, and enjoy time together in a fun setting.
Events like Walk4Friendship are crucial for fostering community bonds, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, and ensuring that children with special needs and their families have access to necessary resources and support.
My step-daughter Basya organized this event.
The Rabbi mentioned that the gathering also served to honor the memory of two children with special needs who tragically lost their lives in the Oct. 7 attack in Israel.
“The role of a rabbi includes fostering a community that embodies greater acceptance and love. It’s crucial that we illuminate our world for everyone, creating a more welcoming environment,” he expressed.
The day’s activities began with a leisurely walk around the park, succeeded by a carnival that offered a variety of family-friendly activities, including treats, music, and an acrobatics performance.
Jacob Farkash, a special needs participant, shared his thoughts during the opening speech.
“Friendship House is very special to me because it’s a place where I can truly be myself. It offers fun activities and the chance to be with friends. Without it, I would miss out on being my true self, spending time with friends, and enjoying many exciting activities,” he explained.
Karina Constantine, an educator present at Sunday’s event, noted that individuals with special needs are often sidelined due to ignorance or misconceptions about living with special needs. She believes that attending such events is a vital step towards closing this divide and ensuring that people with special needs are not excluded.
“They’re incredible; they’re like little angels. That’s the essence of equity and inclusion. They deserve the same opportunities as every other child,” she stated.
Harlan Kilstein the publisher of this website is a resident of Delray. He has lived in Palm Beach County since 1997, In that time he has explored everything for surfing on private beaches in Delray to walks up and down Atlantic Avenue.
He is known to drop everything at a moment's notice to fish in Delray Lakes, bird watch, goes horseback riding or play pinball at the Delray Pin Ball Museum.
You can find him either sipping a coffee on Atlantic Avenue or drinking a flight of whiskey at Warren's.
One thing is certain, he knows Delray Beach.
