Causes: Autism, Children & Youth, Disabilities, Down Syndrome, Health, Youth Development Programs

Mission: Friends Connect Foundation’s mission is to provide social opportunities designed for individuals with special needs. Our age-appropriate programs assist participants in forming new friendships, improving their self-esteem and increasing their sense of belonging in the community.

Results: Friends Connect Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Middletown, NJ. Our mission is to help teenagers with special needs build self-esteem, new friendships and an improved sense of belonging through free social events such as mini golfing, holiday parties, dance lessons, gardening, cooking and more. Friends Connect Foundation has served over 400 teenagers with and without special needs at over 30 friendship events since 2018.All events are free for participants with special needs.

Target demographics: Teenagers With Special Needs

Direct beneficiaries per year: over 450 teenagers with and without special needs

Geographic areas served: New Jersey

Programs: Free friendship programs in the categories of fitness, art, music, socials and community service.