One in 12 children contends with a developmental challenge. For some, the challenge is autism or Down syndrome. For others it is cerebral palsy, a physical impairment, ADHD, or even an extremely rare syndrome. Whatever the diagnosis, one of the most heartbreaking challenges for these children is the barrier of being different. The difficulty is finding friends. Central to the Friendship Circle mission is recruiting high school volunteers and inspiring them to enrich a young person's life as a special friend and role model. With teen volunteers serving as the backbone of many of its programs, Friendship Circle now provides close to 30 social, recreational and educational programs for children ages 5 to young adulthood, as well as programs for family members and the teen volunteers. Through Friendship Circle, families feel connected to a welcoming, affirming community.