The 4th Annual Evening of Recognition
-a most meaningful and enjoyable evening-
April 27, 2010
In a beautiful setting, the warm and open home of Anita and Barry Poll, the 4th annual FC Evening of Recognition unfolded.
After beginning the evening with fancy and tasty appetizers, guest were warmly welcomed by Emily Hoffman, who kept the momentum going with her special touch of insight and sensitivity.
The menu, by Shallots, included an elegant plated salad mix of fruit, caramelized nuts and garden lettuce, delectable salmon and side dishes. The presentation added to the touch of elegance of the Dinner.
Edeth Engel, a senior of Glenbrook North, and a Pioneer Volunteer (since 2006), shared with the eager listeners, of her home visits with Josh, and how she looks forward to Sundays, when she engages in fun activities with him. She expressed how much she appreciates what these visits do for her, in her personal growth.
In turn, Josh Devries, her Friends@Home buddy, a student at Deerfield High School, shared how these Sunday visits from Edeth are a highlight of his week, and how much he enjoys her companionship and the fun activities they share.
During dinner, we were treated to a most touching speech from Mrs. Bassie Moscowitz, Program Director and Volunteer Coordinator, which included beautiful Torah insights and a most moving story with a powerful message. “We see the incredible impact one can have on an individual when love and care are expressed. The affect is two-fold: more than the giver gives - does he receive”.
Gifts were presented to the hosts, Barry and Anita Poll, who displayed their humble gratitude for being able to be involved in and facilitate such a vital and meaningful cause. Shmuel and Sharone Goodman, who have financially jumpstarted The Friendship Circle – making the dream of having FC in Illinois a reality – distributed the “Legion of Friendship” Awards to the volunteers present. The volunteers were awarded with a “platinum record” certificate along with their gifts.
Rabbi Zelik Moscowitz, Director of The Friendship Circle, addressed the Hebrew day, 14th of Iyar, a date that underscores the unique quality of each individual and teaches us a powerful lesson of inclusion. This is the essence of FC, embracing and including everyone, as they are.
The highlight of the evening, a video presentation titled "Mindsets" describes, in a profound and loving way, how The Friendship Circle respects and acknowledges every person, no matter the hindrances or challenges. Each participant was 
given a copy as a keepsake, to reflect upon the affect they can have on the world: as a volunteer, a special friend, or a supporter.
The affair concluded with enjoyable entertainment by Comedy Sportz. Everyone had some good laughs as the “players” improvised based on the audiences’ input. The participants enjoyed the friendliness and harmony amongst each other at the Dinner – the warmth of The Friendship Circle community.
Photos: Photography by Yakov