Circle of Friends Ministry offers Bible-based teaching, life skills development, social connection activities, vocational training, community outings, cooking classes, and arts and crafts workshops, all designed to build independence, confidence, and spiritual growth.
The ministry is located in Lake Wales, Florida, on E Crystal Ave. Programs operate in person on weekdays from Wednesday to Friday.
Executive Director Brandy Dykes leads the ministry. She brings personal experience as a mother of a daughter with Down syndrome, shaping the ministry's compassionate, faith-based approach.
The ministry offers encouragement, connection, and partnership for families and caregivers, providing a safe environment for their loved ones and offering respite and hope through community support.
Circle of Friends integrates faith-based teaching with practical life skills, social connection, vocational training, and community outings in a welcoming environment focused on belonging and emotional safety.
Yes, participants take part in community outings like farm visits, bike shop sessions, neighborhood tours, and nature walks to apply skills in real contexts and build confidence.
Spiritual growth is fostered through Bible study classes, faith encouragement talks, scripture reflection meetings, and interactive spiritual growth workshops grounded in Christian values.
Vocational training includes developing positive work habits, teamwork exercises, communication skills, and exposure to practical environments like bike repair and agriculture.
Circle of Friends Ministry is a well-established non-profit serving the Lake Wales area since 1999, led by experienced staff with a personal understanding of disability support, though specific licensure details are not provided.
Interested families can contact Circle of Friends Ministry directly to inquire about enrollment, schedule a visit, or learn about program availability and participation requirements.
All outings and activities are supervised by trained staff who ensure a safe, structured environment tailored to participants' needs, including transportation safety and group supervision protocols.
Yes, the ministry relies on community partnerships, volunteers, and donations to sustain and expand its programs. Interested individuals can reach out to learn how to get involved or support financially.
Yes, the ministry offers friendship building circles, teamwork exercises, community sharing sessions, and group activities designed to foster meaningful peer connections.
Participants learn money management, time management, communication, personal care, cooking, and problem-solving skills to enhance their independence and quality of life.
Programs use hands-on, visual, and repetitive learning methods in supportive settings to meet diverse needs, ensuring participants can engage meaningfully at their own pace.
The ministry affirms each individual's God-given worth and potential, creating a respectful, loving environment where everyone is known by name and supported to grow.
