Honorees

Gala Honorees

Joel and Hoda Mezistrano’s relationship with Friendship Circle spans more than a decade. Friendship Circle’s mission to expand kindness, compassion, and friendship to people with special needs resonated deeply early on as the Mezistrano family was blessed to include Auntie Beverly, who was full of warmth, a love of life, and special needs. Although Auntie Beverly passed away, she made a lasting impact on her nieces and nephews. When Daniel, Levi, and Avi were presented with the opportunity to join the Mitzvah Volunteer Program training for 6th and 7th graders, they promptly embraced it and have since remained dedicated volunteers with Friendship Circle.

Joel and Hoda both work in real estate, and call Mercer Island home. They are involved in several Jewish and other charitable organizations and have a particularly special love for Friendship Circle and the incredible work of Rabbi and Esther Bogomilsky. Daniel is a senior at MIHS and will spend next year as the newly elected international President of B'nai B'rith Youth Organization. Levi is finishing his 10th grade year after returning prematurely from an Alexander Muss High School program in Israel in October, and Avi is preparing to transition from Jewish Day School to MIHS in the Fall. Friendship Circle plays a central role in each of the Mezistrano’s lives.