Circle of Friends Manual

Christian Learning Center Network is committed to the creation of an inclusive and interdependent community for people experiencing disabilities, unique needs and gifts by partnering with families, churches and schools.

A circle of friends is a network of student volunteers who make a commitment to surround and support a child with a disability or a child who is lacking in social skills. Most often, these friends volunteer for this position at the beginning of the school year. The circle members understand their responsibilities and they meet formally throughout the year to discuss issues related to their friendships.

One benefit of circle friendships we never anticipated is the sense of self-worth that has grown in children who have mild learning or behavioral disabilities, but who are not the target of the circle. It's exciting to watch a student with a learning disability instruct and help a child with a cognitive impairment. The circle of friends, we have found, is a mutual place of belonging for all participants, not simply the child targeted for this network of support.