Friendship

I imagine it might be kind of embarrassing to admit that you've bought your Facebook friends. "How do you know all these people from the Czech republic? Can you really read their status updates?"

Loyalty is beautiful, and good for many things. But it is not good for distinguishing fact from fiction. Or for distinguishing fiancés who should be married from fiancés who should not.

Chana Stery Bryski, now studying in Israel, was one of many volunteers at the Friendship Circle in Agoura Hills, Calif.

Rabbi Levi and Bassie Shemtov, founders of the Friendship Circle, received the prestigious Manhattan Institute Award for Social Entrepreneurship.

A walkathon in suburban New Jersey was one of many across the country that raised money for local Friendship Circles, which pair teenage volunteers with children with special needs.

The Michigan-based network, directed by Chabad-Lubavitch Rabbi Levi Shemtov and his wife Bassie, will be honored by the Manhattan Institute at its annual dinner in October.

The Friendship Circle of Montreal, part of an international Chabad-Lubavitch initiative, promotes socialization between children with special needs and teen volunteers.

The Friendship Circle of Metro West, New Jersey, awarded volunteers for their dedication in working with their "special friends."