Circle of Friends Gala
Envision a harmonious community where individuals of diverse abilities and ages coexist peacefully in shared live, work, and play spaces. Regrettably, many adults with disabilities may never realize this ideal, prompting a critical need for change.
Nationwide, there is a noticeable demand for supportive housing tailored to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Circle of Friends is actively engaged in addressing this issue within Cherokee County by conceptualizing an inclusive neighborhood that integrates individuals with IDD, their neurotypical peers, and older residents. Through collaboration with experts, Circle of Friends is developing a model that aims to offer these friends a genuine sense of belonging.
“Our Future is Bright!”
March 14, 2025 | Woodstock, GA
We’re excited to announce our 2025 Gala, happening on March 14, 2025!
This year’s theme, “Our Future is Bright,” celebrates the incredible journey we’re on together and the exciting opportunities ahead. Save the date for an unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment, and community as we light the way to a brighter future.
Mark your calendars – you won’t want to miss this special event!
Circle of Friends 2025 Gala
Become a Sponsor
Support our 2025 Gala: Our Future is Bright on March 14, 2025, by becoming a sponsor.
Sponsorship opportunities offer a meaningful way to contribute to our mission while gaining visibility for your business or organization.
To learn more about sponsorship packages, please contact Sabrina (skirkland@circleoffriendsinc.org) or click the link below!
Thank you for helping us create a brighter future!
Auction Items:
We are seeking items for the silent auction at our 2025 Gala: Our Future is Bright on March 14, 2025.
Donations can include:
Gift baskets
Artwork
Vacation packages
Dining experiences
Your contribution will help make this event a success and support our mission.
Circle of Friends 2024 Gala
Shortly after the completion of our Inaugural Gala, we decided to continue pouring into our mission of providing a place in this world for our friends who have an intellectual or developmental disability by hosting a second gala fundraiser.
We are on our way to completion of this mission! The Circle of Friends 2024 Gala theme was aptly named “We're on Our Way!
$75,000 Raised!
Circle of Friends Inaugural Gala
The dream of having a gala to help fund the development of a multi-generational, neuro-diverse living community began in 2021.
In 2022, we began planning to host our Inaugural Gala in the Fall of 2022 on November 4th. The gala was lovingly named “A Place in this World” after a song by Michael W. Smith. Too often adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) in our community are left behind while their neuro-typical peers move on to independent living, careers, or starting families.
The wind is moving
But I am standing still
A life of pages
Waiting to be filled
A heart that's hopeful
A head that's full of dreams
But this becoming
Is harder than it seems
Feels likeI'm looking for a reason
Roaming through the night to find
My place in this world
On November 4th, we hosted the gala at His Hands Church in Woodstock, Georgia. With the help of many volunteers, dedicated donors, and community partners, we were able to reach and exceed our $75,000 goal. We were able to raise $80,000 for this multi-generational, multi-purpose, and neuro-inclusive community.
With each gala we host, the money is then dedicated to the completion of a live-work-play environment for our friends with an IDD, so that they may flourish and find their place in this world.