My wife, Estelle, and I have supported Friendship Circle for many years because of my experience of having both of my siblings with special needs. Growing up, I was deeply impacted by this reality and often struggled because of the extra attention and constant concern they both received from my parents. Not until many, many years later did I begin to understand the trials my parents went through trying desperately to improve the lives of my sister and brother.

The vast contrast between the services offered now versus the lack of support and services available when I was growing up is astounding. I often think about how much a Friendship Circle could have enriched the lives of my siblings and how much of the constant stress and strain it would have been lifted from my parent’s daily struggle.

On August 28, 2010, the Florene Elkus & Edward Elkus Memorial Gym at Friendship Circle was dedicated in memory of my siblings. Of all the charities we have supported, my wife and I receive much pleasure and Nachas from the gym and the Friendship Circle because It has made such wonderful differences in the lives of so many. It is truly miraculous.

We never realized how many kids there are with special needs and how it has affected so many families. I understand and know too well what it is to grow up with children with special needs and that’s why the Friendship Circle is so important to me.

We have pledged a legacy gift to the future of Friendship Circle because it serves such a vital need in our community. We want to ensure the organization survives and prospers in its mission to serve those with special needs, their siblings, parents and to continue to make those small and large miracles. Estelle and I are proud to be part of the future of Friendship Circle.

Sincerely,
Philip Elkus