We've Got Friends

?? Drumroll, please! We are beyond excited to introduce Carmen Alvarez as the new Director of Programming at We’ve Got Friends! ?? Hello, my name is Carmen Alvarez, and I’m honored to be the new Director of Programming at We’ve Got Friends (WGF). It’s a privilege to join this incredible organization, which is creating such a positive and impactful community for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). I deeply believe in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, particularly the importance of belonging, and I’m committed to ensuring that every participant at WGF feels seen, heard, and connected. In my role, I advocate for an inclusive environment where differences are celebrated and friendships are built. We are all unique, and I’m excited to work with this amazing community to foster meaningful connections where everyone can thrive. - OUR MISSION: We create inclusive social spaces for teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to form meaningful connections with their peers. We host hangouts and special events where teens can make friends, share their unique talents and abilities, strengthen their sense of belonging, and gain self-confidence along the way. Our programming is free to participants and their families; we believe friendship should be accessible to all, regardless of race, gender, national origin, religion, or economic status. Learn more & get involved at wgfnj.org OR click the link in our bio. #WeveGotFriends #NewBeginnings #Inclusion #TeensWithDisabilities #TeenLife #ProgramDirector #SATPrep #Podcasts #LearningFun #AdventureTime #Memories #WGFAdventures #UnforgettableMoments #YouthEmpowerment #CommunityMatters #Inclusivity #TeenEmpowerment #EducationMatters #FriendshipGoals #ExcitingTimes #NewChapter #TeenLeadership #Inspiration #LimitlessPossibilities #DreamTeam #WeAreOne #Diversity #EmpowerTeens #ChangeMakers

Cheers to the new year from all of us at We’ve Got Friends! ???? As we look back on the incredible moments we shared in 2024, we’re filled with gratitude for the power of friendship and community. Here’s to creating even more unforgettable memories together in 2025! ?? If you’d like to support our mission in the new year, consider donating today with the link below ??? https://lnkd.in/e_suWZEV #NewYearNewGoals #FriendshipIn2025 #CheersToCommunity #SupportOurMission #WeveGotFriends #InclusiveHangout #TeenFriendships #EmpowerThroughInclusion #BelongingMatters #TeenEmpowerment #FriendshipForAll #UniqueAbilities #SpreadLove #AccessForEveryone #JoinUs #CommunityLove #TeensWithAbilities #SocialInclusion #SignUpForFree #SpreadTheLove #BuildingConnections #BeTheChange #EmpowerTeens #FriendshipGoals #InclusiveSpaces #SpreadPositivity #TogetherWeCan #CreatingChange #teensupport

?? Save the Date! Join us for We've Got Friends' 6th Annual Golf Outing, raising funds to create inclusive social spaces for teens with I/DD. At our core, we believe friendship should be accessible to all. All proceeds support programmatic and operational expenses, ensuring access to friendship at no cost for participants and families year-round. ?? Where: Glen Ridge Country Club, Glen Ridge, NJ ??? When: Monday, July 14th, 2025 Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates! Become a Sponsor to make a lasting impact and elevate your brand while supporting our mission. Tap the link to explore sponsorship opportunities and start making a difference in the lives of our teens: https://lnkd.in/e9WbcPvn . . . #GolfForACause #InclusiveFriendship #TeenEmpowerment #CommunitySupport #NJEvents #GolfOuting #Fundraiser #Nonprofit #GlenRidgeNJ #SponsorshipOpportunities #MakeADifference #AccessibleFriendship #WeveGotFriends #TaxDeductibleDonations #NJGolf #SupportLocal #SocialImpact #GiveBack #CharityGolf #YouthEmpowerment #SupportTeens #SpreadKindness #BuildingConnections #FriendshipMatters #AccessibleSocialSpaces #EmpowerTeens #BetheChange

We're #hiring a new Executive Director in Montclair, New Jersey. Apply today or share this post with your network.

We're #hiring a new Media Coordinator in Montclair, New Jersey. Apply today or share this post with your network.

We're celebrating Funded Friday this week with our friends from?MONTCLAIR FUND FOR WOMEN INC! ?? We are going to put their generous $5,000 grant to great use this year, planning more fun activities and events for our WGF NJ crew. Thank you to the Montclair Fund For Women for helping us to create more safe spaces for tweens and teens with?#idd???

On Behalf of We've Got Friends: Thank you! Greetings, We are excited to share the highlights of We've Got Friends' 5th Annual Golf Outing, held on Monday, July 15, 2024, at the beautiful Glen Ridge Country Club in Glen Ridge, NJ. This year’s event was a resounding success, with our community coming together to support a cause close to our hearts. We are proud to announce that we exceeded our fundraising goal, raising over $193,000! We were delighted to welcome 81 golfers and 128 luncheon guests, all contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the day. Our event was further enriched by the support of 34 dedicated volunteers who helped ensure everything ran smoothly. Our special guests added a unique charm to the outing. Harry Santa-Olalla served as our engaging emcee and auctioneer extraordinaire, and Jay Harris from SportsCenter, ESPN, graced us with his presence to present the awards. We were also honored to have Jason Barak, a WGF board member, as our featured guest speaker. The musical performance by Jacqueline Harmon Johnson added a touch of elegance and entertainment to the event. If you couldn’t join us but still want to support our mission, it’s not too late to give: https://lnkd.in/ez4PZBbz Every contribution makes a difference and helps us continue our work.Mark your calendars for next year’s outing on Monday, July 14th 2025! More details and registration information will be coming soon. We look forward to another fantastic event! Thank you to everyone who made this day possible. Your support and participation are what make We’ve Got Friends such a special community. We can’t wait to see you next year! Warm regards, Candi Carter Founder & President We’ve Got Friends, Inc. Click here to view the photo album: https://lnkd.in/ei4xsXGB Click here to view the event program: https://lnkd.in/eZkHSZyy Our Mission We create inclusive social spaces for teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to form meaningful connections with their peers. We host hangouts and special events where teens can make friends, share their unique talents and abilities, strengthen their sense of belonging, and gain self-confidence along the way. Our programming is free to participants and their families; we believe friendship should be accessible to all, regardless of race, gender, national origin, religion, or economic status. Alston & Bird BCB Bank BMW of Bloomfield FREDERIC'S FINE JEWELERS Harlem Blue Beer J.P. Morgan Mesirow Paul Miller Auto Group Prudential Financial S&P Global Tito's Handmade Vodka Bushmills Irish Whiskey Dry Farm Wines Fumé Cigar Shop & Lounge Victory Athletic

We are thrilled to welcome the newest members of the We've Got Friends (WGF) Board of Directors! These passionate individuals bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to our mission of providing programs and activities for pre-teens and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Founded by Candi Carter to support her son’s social challenges, WGF creates inclusive opportunities for kids with I/DD to connect, grow, and have fun. Our Hangouts have a transformative impact, bringing joy and enthusiasm to these amazing kids. Our new board members, who are parents, advocates, and friends, have witnessed firsthand the incredible benefits of WGF’s programs. They are eager to contribute their expertise and networks to help WGF grow and reach even more families. Mark your calendars! Our upcoming Golf Outing is on Monday, July 15th at Glen Ridge Country Club in Glen Ridge, NJ. Your participation and support are vital to continuing our work. Join us or consider supporting in any way you can to make a difference in the lives of these amazing kids. Register as a sponsor, golfer, or for the luncheon only here: https://lnkd.in/e3gJp8zT. If you are unable to attend, please consider donating to our event here: https://lnkd.in/ePakZKDw. Welcome aboard to our new board members! Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with I/DD. Dr Lisa Thornton Venessa Dobney Andrea Holmes Thompkins Adam Gale Jason Barak Joel Boff Karen Tucker Steve Bohmert James Sullivan

We are thrilled to welcome the newest members of the We've Got Friends (WGF) Board of Directors! These passionate individuals bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to our mission of providing programs and activities for pre-teens and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Founded by Candi Carter to support her son’s social challenges, WGF creates inclusive opportunities for kids with I/DD to connect, grow, and have fun. Our Hangouts have a transformative impact, bringing joy and enthusiasm to these amazing kids. Our new board members, who are parents, advocates, and friends, have witnessed firsthand the incredible benefits of WGF’s programs. They are eager to contribute their expertise and networks to help WGF grow and reach even more families. Mark your calendars! Our upcoming Golf Outing is on Monday, July 15th at Glen Ridge Country Club in Glen Ridge, NJ. Your participation and support are vital to continuing our work. Join us or consider supporting in any way you can to make a difference in the lives of these amazing kids. Register as a sponsor, golfer, or for the luncheon only here: https://lnkd.in/e3gJp8zT. If you are unable to attend, please consider donating to our event here: https://lnkd.in/ePakZKDw. Welcome aboard to our new board members! Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with I/DD. Dr Lisa Thornton Venessa Dobney Andrea Holmes Thompkins Adam Gale Jason Barak Joel Boff Karen Tucker Steve Bohmert James Sullivan

?We are 2 WEEKS away from our 5th Annual We've Got Friends Golf Outing ? Prizes, performances, and lots of putting all to raise funds for our WGF NJ community. Ready to sign up and golf for good? Visit https://lnkd.in/e3gJp8zT and start working on your swing today! ??? #autismnj #onthespectrum #njgolf #charitygolf #golf