Oahu
Aloha United Way Building
200 N. Vineyard Blvd, Suite B260
Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone: 808.545.3025
Regional Director – Sarah Man
Senior Program Manager – Elizabeth Mahoe
Maui
J.W. Cameron Center
95 Mahalani Street, No. 28-1A
Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793
Phone: 808.242.6962
Fax: 808.875.1638
Senior Program Manager – Alison Somilleda
Programs Assistant – Ronda Hanson
Volunteer – Michael McCormick
Interviewer: Guillermo Sapriza, Coordinator, Best Buddies Paraguay, Fundación Saraki
Tell us about your story with Best Buddies?
Carlos: I remember starting with Best Buddies Paraguay back in 2014, when I was looking for volunteer opportunities, and in my search I found Fundación Saraki, they have the Best Buddies Program. I didn’t know much about it in the beginning, but once enrolled I found how much I could grow as an individual with a person like Jorgito (his buddy); and thought, I really need to do this. So I had an interview with the team were they asked me about everything: my skills, my interests, what I like to do, my soccer team, etc. Then they informed me about the process and that in about a month I would have a buddy, I was super excited, I wanted to meet him. Later they told me “let’s go to Loma San Jerónimo so you can meet your buddy”. I went there, it was the first time I was in the neighborhood, then I saw Jorgito and will never forget how he jumped of happiness when he met me, like love at first sight (laughs).
Jorgito: Hey, I love you a lot but I like girls (laughs).
What is the meaning of Best Buddies to you?
Carlos: Friendship without frontiers.
What do you like the most about your buddy?
Carlos: He is an amazing person and I know I will always have his unconditional support, he worries about me, my family, wants everyone to be alright. For instance, when I had exams at the university, he would pray every day for me to pass all my subjects successfully.
Jorgito: I like hanging out with him, we do a lot together. When he was away on a trip, I cried a little for my friend, I would always ask my mom when he was coming back, I was worried for him, didn’t want him to need something.
Carlos: Yes, I went to another country on a cultural exchange trip, was out for 3 months. At that time Jorgito felt responsible for looking after my family while I was away, he is without a doubt a great friend. We also have a lot in common, we are both fans of club Olimpia (an emblematic soccer club of Paraguay), and we are still due to go watch a live game.
What do you like doing together?
Carlos: We like dancing, singing, checking out the ladies, go to the Costanera (boardwalk at the Paraguay River) to take short strolls, drink tereré (traditional beverage based of yerba mate). We have done a lot of stuff with Jorgito since we first met, we always get together and hang around every place we can in Asunción. Let’s not forget the food, every time we go out together for brunch he religiously orders a mixto with coffee and milk.
Jorgito: Saturdays are our hanging out day, we walk around Asunción, watch the ladies, and the mixto with coffee and milk, that’s my hobby (laughs).
Carlos: He has been to my home, shared time with my family, especially with my grandmother. We have done everything in this two years of friendship, a friendship which will last for a lifetime.
How has Best Buddies change your life?
Carlos: It’s a program that gives you another take on life, a different perspective, it changes you and you can feel it.
Carlos Sr. (father of Carlos): Since my son started volunteering, we noticed a change not only in him, but in all of our family. In time we were getting involved with Best Buddies and their cause. I will never forget when my son was out of the country for a few months, and Jorgito promised to care for us while Carlos was gone, he is a person with a lot to give. It is really a unique human experience, more than a pair of friends, we are a big family.
Why do you think more people should join Best Buddies?
Carlos: When I upload pictures on Instagram and social media, my friends always ask me “Who is that? What is Best Buddies? What do you do?” And I always encourage them to join, because I met incredible people in the process, we are breaking prejudice; and like I said before, it is an experience that changes your perspective, the way you see others. Besides, with Jorgito, we have a friendship which will last a lifetime.
—
Visit bestbuddies.org/celebrate to learn how you can join our #BestBuddiesMonth celebration throughout the month of March!
April 9, 2016
West Des Moines, IA
Embassy Club West
520 Market Street | 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Join us for the Best Buddies Iowa Friendship Ball on Saturday, April 9th for an evening with all your Best Buddies friends! Get excited for a fun night complete with a red carpet entrance, beverages, snacks and desserts. And don’t forget the dancing! A DJ will be playing your favorite tunes all night long! Chapter members, parents, friends and other volunteers are invited to this FREE event.
Boogie for Buddies was held this year on February 13th at Kickemuit Middle School! Kickemuit, a new Best Buddies Rhode Island (BBRI) Middle School chapter graciously volunteered to host the event and it was a great way to welcome them to the BBRI family! There were four different classes held throughout the day including yoga, instructed by Dave Egan; calisthenics, led by Matt Vittoria, from Health Fitness; Boulder Dash Obstacle Course, led by Lynn Hall; and lastly, Bee in Motion, a dance class led by Dennis Harvey! Thank you to all of our great instructors for a day of fitness and FUN! Lunch and water was provided thanks to: Bristol Total Fitness, Best Buddies Rhode Island Programs Committee, Balasco’s Pizza, and Warren House of Pizza, Bristol House of Pizza, and Papa Gino’s! Thank you so much for your support!!! The students had a great time with their buddies and enjoyed meeting new Best Buddies members! To see pictures from the event, please visit our Best Buddies Rhode Island Facebook Page!
Missouri Office
missouri@bestbuddies.org
10425 Old Olive Street Road
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Phone: 314. 686.5689
BESTBUDDIES.ORG/MISSOURI
State Director – Kelly Quinn
Board Chair Coordinator – Jennifer Brooks
Program Manager, School Friendship – Amber Moloney
May 13, 2016
Washington, D.C.
Carnegie Library
801 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Join us on Friday, May 13th as we host the 2016 Best Buddies Capital Region Prom at the stunning Carnegie Library in downtown Washington, D.C. This event gives local students of all different abilities the chance to enjoy a spectacular evening of dancing, food, beverages, and friendship. Every student deserves a wonderful and inclusive Prom night!
Although the students are the stars of the evening, the adults will be enjoying their own celebration including complimentary open bar, an assortment of delicious passed hors d’oeuvres, and an exciting live and silent auction. VIPs will have the opportunity to sample sweet and savory bites prepared by DC’s most celebrated chefs alongside student “sous chefs” from local Best Buddies programs during an exclusive VIP reception prior to the event. The adult celebration will allow guests to unwind with some of the District’s finest “movers and shakers” while witnessing Best Buddies’ mission of social inclusion first-hand.
Be a part of an unforgettable night of dancing, specialty food and drink, one-of-a-kind auction items, and celebrating friendship and inclusion at the Best Buddies Prom! All proceeds will support Best Buddies programs: one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm: VIP Reception
7:30 pm – 11:00 pm: Doors open for students and general ticket holders
How did you learn about Best Buddies?
Tatum: I learned about Best Buddies through my mom; she was an ASL interpreter at my high school about 12 years ago and shared an office with Greenway’s chapter advisor, Barbara Carlson, and got to witness several club meetings. My mom talked about what an amazing club it is, and encouraged my sisters and me to it once we attend high school.
Carter: I found out about Best Buddies through Tatum. She talked to me about it at lunch and asked for me to join.
Best Buddies: What does Best Buddies mean to you?
Tatum: Best Buddies means several things to me. It means friendship, inclusion, and an endless amount of happiness. The friendships I have made through this organization are the ones I’ll cherish for the rest of my life, and has created an internal happiness that I won’t find anywhere else.
Carter: What Best Buddies means to me is making friends and being able to fit in.
Best Buddies: What have you learned from your involvement in Best Buddies?
Tatum: Best Buddies has taught me that having different abilities in a friendship shouldn’t matter. No matter the challenges that Carter may face in life, our friendship isn’t determined by them. I have learned to be more patient, accepting, and understanding of all people, and I give all the credit to Best Buddies.
Carter: From Best Buddies I have learned many social skills like being able to socialize with my peers. I also have learned how to be more mature.
Best Buddies: How has Best Buddies changed your life?
Tatum: My life has changed because of Best Buddies in almost every way. Before joining this organization I dreamed of becoming a performer. After Best Buddies, I dream of becoming a speech pathologist. Joining my school’s chapter and meeting all the people involved in the organization has made me realize that I need to help and return the favor to the community that changed how I view everything in my life. I want to be of service to my community.
Carter: Best Buddies has changed my life in making me feel included and feel like a high schooler.
Best Buddies: Why would you encourage others to get involved in Best Buddies?
Tatum: I encourage others to start being involved in Best Buddies in hopes that their lives will be turned upside down in the best way possible, like it did to me. I also want people to be involved to see what great things the IDD community can do and to have them be included in today’s society, for the sole purpose of having these great individuals be appreciated in the world.
Carter: I would want others to join Best Buddies because it’s fun and makes me feel happy!
—
Visit bestbuddies.org/celebrate to learn how you can join our #BestBuddiesMonth celebration throughout the month of March!
Best Buddies International, Special Olympics, and supporters from around the world will unite on March 2nd for the eighth annual Spread the Word to End the Word® Day. This day gathers people committed to a more inclusive world to build awareness for our society to stop and think about its use of the R-word and rally people to pledge respect toward all individuals, making the world a more accepting and inclusive place for all people, especially those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Across the nation, Best Buddies chapter leaders and volunteers are hosting engaging events which challenge their community to think inclusively, share respectful language, and to act more mindfully in the way that they speak.
Across the south, chapters are engaging creative methods to draw attention to hurtful use of the r-word. At the University of South Florida, Best Buddies chapter members are working to ensure that everyone on campus knows the importance of the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign. They have organized three booths on different parts of their campus in order to maximize their exposure. At one booth, they are selling Spread the Word pins for one dollar. At the second booth, they are creating a giant banner, where people can sign their name and pledge to End the R-Word. At the final booth, they are giving out purple ribbons to everyone, in order to show support for the Best Buddies mission of friendship. The campus is sure to be fully engaged and fully participating in changing language in South Florida!
At Bloomingdale High School, outside of Tampa, members created their own Spread the Word to End the Word public service announcement. They aired their PSA over the morning announcements, so that all of the students are aware of the importance of the campaign. At lunch, they created a banner, with the names of all of the students who pledged to End the R-Word. The banner is now displayed in the cafeteria, in order to remind the students of their pledge and to keep the going for the rest of the school year!
Nova Southeastern University Best Buddies Chapter in Davie Florida will be having a week of events for Spread the Word to End the Word. Demetrius “Big Money” Dozier, a Best Buddies Global Ambassador, will be sharing a speech about the importance of ending the use of the R-word. Members are encouraged to take the pledge
In Tennessee at Brentwood High School outside Nashville, chapter members spent their lunch period last week making posters and today – the day of the Spread the Word campaign – they are filming a video and placing the posters around their school to remind people of the pledge and its purpose. The school will also be holding an assembly and the chapter will speak to their peers and showcase their video. Chapter leaders are meeting separately with faculty to ensure all students, staff, and community members are aware of the campaign and its goals.
In the North, chapters are engaging students in and outside of Beset Buddies chapters to join the campaign. At the University of Maine, leaders are encouraging students on campus and members of the community to share their reasons for pledging to end the use of the r-word by taking pictures and posting on social media. They are collecting testimonies of reasons to eradicate use of hurtful language by also engaging sororities and fraternities on campus to share further awareness. The brothers of Pi Kappa Phi on campus all took the pledge to eliminate the r-word by signing their own banner they created, which reads “ΠΚΦ Spreads the Word to End the Word!”
At Miami University of Ohio, chapter members are greeting their peers on campus and commuters with warm coffee and asking people to stop and listen so they can share the purpose of the Spread the Word campaign.
In New York, North Rockland High School on Long Island is once again sharing their efforts to eradicate the r-word with their annual R-Word Stomp. Each year the Best Buddies Promoters chapter on campus creates an innovative, exciting video each year to promote the campaign. This year they engaged their entire school community to produce this exciting video:
At Indiana University in Bloomington, chapter members spent the week gearing up for an engaging Spread the Word to End the Word event by creating their own creative banner. Chapter members gathered with their buddies from their host site at Stonebelt to paint over the R-word on their own special banner. They are encouraging peers and community members from all over campus to join them today to pledge their name to the chapter’s unique banner in a fun, engaging way to share respect!
Out west, the mission of the campaign is spreading beyond school campuses. In California, the Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Bay Area Committee is spreading the word about the campaign; they pledged their support and are working to educate their community about the hurtful use of the r-word.
At Viewmont High School, outside Salt Lake City in Utah, leaders will gather at lunch for their Second Annual Pledge Party. Best Buddies members will rally together to encourage their peers and teachers to pledge their support in eliminating the derogatory r-word from everyday language.
“This is such a great cause, Spread the Word is easily my favorite day of the year! It is the best thing ever to see peers and teachers serving as advocates and showing respect for our students and those affected by this word.” – Sarah Dennison, Viewmont H.S. Best Buddies Advisor
Best Buddies is excited to see how you celebrate today to showcase the need to change hurtful language, to educate your peers and community about the effects their language choice has on our society, and to be a leader in a movement for a more inclusive, accepting world! Share your story with us by pledging:
I pledge #Respect thru my words & actions. Will you? Pledge now to change the game for people with IDD at r-word.org.
April 17, 2016
3:00pm – 7:00pm
Hartford Convention Center
Hartford, CT 06103
The 2016 Best Buddies Connecticut Buddy Ball is an exciting and fulfilling night of celebration, created to honor each and every one of our chapter members for the amazing work they do all year long! This formal event, which is open to all registered members of our official school friendship and citizens chapters in our state, is a true dedication to their efforts in spreading the Best Buddies mission throughout their local schools and communities. The Buddy Ball brings together chapter members from across the state, those with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities, from our middle, high school, college, and citizens programs. It signifies the commitment of our organization, the dedication of our volunteers, and the pure joy of friendship and inclusion. The Buddy Ball is an event of happiness, a true testament to the over 3,700 student volunteers we are lucky to call our Best Buddies family.
The 2016 Best Buddies Connecticut Buddy Ball is planned to be a true red carpet event, decked out from start to finish in the dazzling wonders of Hollywood. Your appearance on the red carpet signifies your work in our mission, and unites as one. ALL official school and citizen chapter members are welcome! If you are a registered member of Best Buddies CT, you must complete the registration form below to attend this event. You may only purchase one ticket at a time, each costing $25.00. All purchases must be made online.
*Please note, this event is for student, citizen, and advisor chapter members only! If you are a student requiring a support staff, please indict this in your registration form. All parents/guardians assisting in driving to this event will be contacted directly for specifics on activities to do during the duration of the event.
Interviewer: Guillermo Sapriza, Coordinator, Best Buddies Paraguay, Fundación Saraki
Tell us about your story with Best Buddies?
Carlos: I remember starting with Best Buddies Paraguay back in 2014, when I was looking for volunteer opportunities, and in my search I found Fundación Saraki, they have the Best Buddies Program. I didn’t know much about it in the beginning, but once enrolled I found how much I could grow as an individual with a person like Jorgito (his buddy); and thought, I really need to do this. So I had an interview with the team were they asked me about everything: my skills, my interests, what I like to do, my soccer team, etc. Then they informed me about the process and that in about a month I would have a buddy, I was super excited, I wanted to meet him. Later they told me “let’s go to Loma San Jerónimo so you can meet your buddy”. I went there, it was the first time I was in the neighborhood, then I saw Jorgito and will never forget how he jumped of happiness when he met me, like love at first sight (laughs).
Jorgito: Hey, I love you a lot but I like girls (laughs).
What is the meaning of Best Buddies to you?
Carlos: Friendship without frontiers.
What do you like the most about your buddy?
Carlos: He is an amazing person and I know I will always have his unconditional support, he worries about me, my family, wants everyone to be alright. For instance, when I had exams at the university, he would pray every day for me to pass all my subjects successfully.
Jorgito: I like hanging out with him, we do a lot together. When he was away on a trip, I cried a little for my friend, I would always ask my mom when he was coming back, I was worried for him, didn’t want him to need something.
Carlos: Yes, I went to another country on a cultural exchange trip, was out for 3 months. At that time Jorgito felt responsible for looking after my family while I was away, he is without a doubt a great friend. We also have a lot in common, we are both fans of club Olimpia (an emblematic soccer club of Paraguay), and we are still due to go watch a live game.
What do you like doing together?
Carlos: We like dancing, singing, checking out the ladies, go to the Costanera (boardwalk at the Paraguay River) to take short strolls, drink tereré (traditional beverage based of yerba mate). We have done a lot of stuff with Jorgito since we first met, we always get together and hang around every place we can in Asunción. Let’s not forget the food, every time we go out together for brunch he religiously orders a mixto with coffee and milk.
Jorgito: Saturdays are our hanging out day, we walk around Asunción, watch the ladies, and the mixto with coffee and milk, that’s my hobby (laughs).
Carlos: He has been to my home, shared time with my family, especially with my grandmother. We have done everything in this two years of friendship, a friendship which will last for a lifetime.
How has Best Buddies change your life?
Carlos: It’s a program that gives you another take on life, a different perspective, it changes you and you can feel it.
Carlos Sr. (father of Carlos): Since my son started volunteering, we noticed a change not only in him, but in all of our family. In time we were getting involved with Best Buddies and their cause. I will never forget when my son was out of the country for a few months, and Jorgito promised to care for us while Carlos was gone, he is a person with a lot to give. It is really a unique human experience, more than a pair of friends, we are a big family.
Why do you think more people should join Best Buddies?
Carlos: When I upload pictures on Instagram and social media, my friends always ask me “Who is that? What is Best Buddies? What do you do?” And I always encourage them to join, because I met incredible people in the process, we are breaking prejudice; and like I said before, it is an experience that changes your perspective, the way you see others. Besides, with Jorgito, we have a friendship which will last a lifetime.
—
Visit bestbuddies.org/celebrate to learn how you can join our #BestBuddiesMonth celebration throughout the month of March!
April 9, 2016
West Des Moines, IA
Embassy Club West
520 Market Street | 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Join us for the Best Buddies Iowa Friendship Ball on Saturday, April 9th for an evening with all your Best Buddies friends! Get excited for a fun night complete with a red carpet entrance, beverages, snacks and desserts. And don’t forget the dancing! A DJ will be playing your favorite tunes all night long! Chapter members, parents, friends and other volunteers are invited to this FREE event.
Wisconsin Office
wisconsin@bestbuddies.org
10425 West North Avenue #340
Wauwatosa, Wi 53226
Phone: 414.271.1470|Fax: 414.271.1469
BESTBUDDIES.ORG/WISCONSIN
State Director – Courtney Rogaczewski
Operations Coordinator – Stephanie Bartley
Deputy Director, Programs – Rachel Konetzke
Program Supervisor – Chelsea Hren
Program Manager, School Friendship – Izzi Tritz
Program Manager, Adult Friendship – Mackenzie Sigler
Please complete this Annual Report form in its entirety before submitting it to the Marketing Team.
Sample copy and image(s) have been placed next to each question to better assist you with submitting your state’s content. Please use this sample content to guide the tonality, grammer and narrative (3rd person vs. 1st person) you use so that the final comprehensive document with all states is cohesive and uniform.
Also, make sure you have signed releases within the last 6 months from all Buddies and Peer Buddies for all images submitted.
You may SAVE your form for completion at a later date. However, once you SUBMIT the form you will need to contact the Marketing Team with any changes/additional content you may have.
Note: you will not be able to submit the form if it is missing content or the copy submitted does not meet the requirements.
SAMPLE STATE DIRECTOR IMAGE & MESSAGE
Best Buddies Massachusetts began 2014 with several major goals in mind, including expanding our Jobs and Friendship programs to central Massachusetts. As private and state revenue increased in 2014, we were able to hire new staff to oversee expansion throughout the commonwealth. Additionally, we wanted to increase our presence in schools within the city of Boston. With support from the school district, we opened three new chapters in this area in 2014. As my responsibilities increased with the Best Buddies Challenge in 2014, I identified the need for additional operational support. We created a new position and brought on a Best Buddies veteran, in late spring, as our director of operations. Heading into 2015, we are poised to fulfill our goals of expanding our success with Best Buddies Jobs beyond the greater Boston region, continuing to engage new communities with our Friendship programs, and increasing revenue through relationships with new employer partners, foundations, individuals, and through our signature special events.
Diligent work by our tireless programs teams brought about more opportunities for expansion in 2014. The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, pleased with our work in greater Boston, offered us a contract in the city of Worcester, which will help us bring integrated employment services to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in that area. We have had a long wait list of individuals who have been interested in our services for years. We have established several relationships with new foundations which will increase our capacity in central Massachusetts, as well. Our team includes veteran Best Buddies staffers who manage relationships statewide with grace, and sheer determination. It is these relationships, along with the exceptional dedication of thousands of volunteers, which enabled Best Buddies Massachusetts to reach our goals in 2014.
In 2015, we expect to serve 100 individuals with IDD through Best Buddies Jobs statewide, and oversee 120 chapters at middle schools, high schools, and colleges throughout the commonwealth. Our advisory board members are ready to help us implement the expansion projects that began in 2014 by helping to identify new employer partners outside the Boston area. By adding new staff positions to both our Friendship and Jobs teams, as well as adding infrastructure by bringing on a Director of Operations, we have increased our capacity to deliver the highest quality of services statewide.
Craig Welton
State Director
SAMPLE BOARD DIRECTOR MESSAGE
I became a volunteer member of the advisory board because I understand the positive impact the organization has on the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). I have an older brother, Scott Robinson, who has an intellectual disability and he has shaped my life in a great way. He teaches me about life and about myself every time I talk with him. He is such a blessing.
What I did not fully understand about Best Buddies before I became a volunteer member, was the personal growth and leadership development the organization brings to everyone involved. From peers to parents, and staff to employers, the inclusion mission has momentum. We have further developed the recognition and the participation of Best Buddies, or as I would say in my business life, enhanced brand awareness. Our galas, rides, walks, and other fundraisers are growing and supporting the organization’s operations. Looking ahead, I feel it is important to increase corporate partnerships and individual giving on multiple-year commitments to achieve greater sustainability.
The success of Best Buddies International is a direct result of the highly effective staff that works with passion and pride to carry out the mission.
Walter Robinson
Advisory Board Chair
SAMPLE AMBASSADOR MESSAGE
My journey to Best Buddies started in the 8th grade about 14 years ago. I had just moved and felt very alone in school. It was even harder for me because of my disability. Once I got involved with Best Buddies, I finally knew how it felt to be really accepted socially. I wasn’t alone anymore.
Over the years, I’ve grown as a person and I am so glad Best Buddies has grown as an organization with the Citizens, Ambassadors and Jobs programs. I am so proud to be an Ambassador, to visit businesses in our state like New York Life Insurance and Deloitte and share my story and tell them about Best Buddies, to really let people know how important our mission is. At Deloitte, I was able to join the company’s employees at their phone bank on their “Community Impact Day.” We all made phone calls to Best Buddies supporters throughout Connecticut, to ask them to keep supporting our Friendship Walk. It really made me feel just how strong the connection between Best Buddies and the community has grown. And I felt like we were all together on the same team, working to get the support we need to keep Best Buddies growing!
Brendan LeMieux
Buddy Ambassador of the Year
HOW TO CALCULATE SPECIFIC STATS
Total number of participants (This applies to all available programs): Includes all chapter positions, advisors, associate members, etc. and can be pulled from BBO list for 2015-2016 school year, as of December 31, 2015.
e-BUDDIES:
If you don’t have these numbers, HQ will provide. Just select I don’t know for that question. Also, if you have any relevant testimonials/stories relating to e-Buddies provide them here, i.e. a great host site or special education teacher who helped make strides in getting buddies in the program in 2015.
Total number of Jobs secured through the program since inception:
Total number of Jobs secured through the program since inception: An estimate is fine, this would include # of jobs and not just number of participants, so if the program has helped a participant get three jobs over the past 10 years, count those jobs as three and not just one.
If your state does not currently have a Jobs programs:
Place a check mark next to where it says N/A Use Boiler Plate Copy. The copy is as follows: “We need your support for Best Buddies to reach out to an even broader spectrum of employers in the coming years. With $150,000 to $250,000 in funding, Best Buddies will be able to launch a jobs program in our state. For more information on how you can support the BESTBUDDIES® JOBS program, please contact: provide (via the link to the left) info for whomever can assist with Job requests in your state to add here.”
HOW TO CALCULATE SPECIFIC STATS
Total cumulative number of Ambassadors trained since program inception: An estimate is fine and should include those trained at BBLC and in the state.
PROMOTERS:
Total number of participants: Includes all chapter positions, advisors, members, etc. and can be pulled from BBO list for the 2015-2016 school year or average from the 2014-2015 end of school year.
Total number of Acts* completed: Please include up to two (2) stories of how these Acts have impacted Best Buddies in a maximum of 50 to 100 words each. When possible, submit a 300dpi hi resolution image for that Act.
SAMPLE ACTS IMAGES AND COPY
Mission in ACTion – Promoters paving the way for inclusion
The Dowling Catholic HS Promoters chapter helps the state office to plan two large scale events for all area chapters each year. The chapter takes the lead on planning the annual Friendship Ball, hosting it at their school for many years. The chapter also partners with Ruby Van Meter School, a secondary school for individuals with moderate and severe disabilities located in Des Moines, for several activities throughout the school year. Students from Ruby Van Meter recently visited Dowling Catholic to join their friends for lunch and also received a tour of the school. Additionally, two students from Dowling Catholic serve on the Best Buddies Iowa Local Leadership Council.
Mission in ACTion – Promoters paving the way for inclusion
North Rockland High School began their Best Buddies Promoters program in 2013 and it has thrived in their school community in just one year’s time. The group had many outings to local businesses where they indulge in weekly ice cream parties, attend minor league baseball games, and spread awareness in their day-to-day interactions. Last year, the chapter created a Spread the Word to End the Word video that went viral on YouTube and changed the way many view the “R-word”.
Best Buddies Indiana Page Day
On February 20, 2014, 30 students from 15 school chapters represented their respective districts by serving as pages for the Indiana General Assembly at the annual Best Buddies Indiana Page Day event. The pairs were chosen to represent the mission of Best Buddies and to share the impact of their friendships.
Local Leadership Training Day
Each year, Best Buddies staff in Florida hosts local trainings for all chapter officers to prepare and empower student leaders to lead the chapters at their schools. In the fall of 2014, Tampa hosted their Local Leadership Training Day at Pepin Academies of Tampa. Over 100 student leaders and advisors attended to prepare for a successful program at their school. Enthusiastic students left feeling empowered about their role in the club, and ready to lead the disability rights movement within their schools and communities.
Northern California Gala
On November 2nd, Best Buddies California held its first annual fundraising benefit in Silicon Valley. The Northern California Gala celebrated the lives of individuals with IDD and honored the life of David Hahn, a former Best Buddies participant. Held at the Palo Alto Hills Golf and Country Club, the event was attended by 200 Best Buddies supporters from the Bay Area and raised over $71,000 to benefit Best Buddies programs in Northern California through sponsorship from Natixis Global Asset Management, ticket sales, a silent auction and fund-a-need.
Champion of the Year
Our very first Champion of the Year campaign kicked off on September 10th and featured 12 Champion candidates competing to raise the most funds and awareness for Best Buddies programs in Indiana over an eight-week period. The campaign was very exciting and competition was fierce, especially between our top two candidates – Matthew Henning and Kacy Wendling. But Kacy pulled ahead at the end to win the title of Champion of the Year by raising more than $12,500. The Champion campaign raised a total of more than $45,000 for Best Buddies and our programs.
Best Buddies Friendship Walk
The 2014 Friendship Walk was a record-breaking event, with more than 2,000 attendees! We exceeded our $100,000 fundraising goal by more than $10,000! The event took place on April 27th along the beautiful White River State Park Canal in downtown Indianapolis. Thank you to the National Collegiate Athletic Association for allowing us to utilize the Hall of Champions building for the event registration. The venue, featuring unique and interactive exhibits, was a big hit with the attendees. Following the walk and run, attendees gathered at Military Park for a post-party that included games, activities, food vendors, a DJ, and an awards presentation to recognize our top individual fundraisers and teams.
MEET CHEYENNE BOUCHER AND OWEN SANSOUCIE
Cheyenne and Owen are a perfect example of what a Best Buddies friendship is all about. They both attend Pembroke Academy in Pembroke New Hampshire, one of New Hampshire’s first chapters. Cheyenne is the chapter president and has known her buddy, Owen, since kindergarten. Best Buddies has given them new opportunities to spend time together and to share their special friendship with others. Their friendship is so natural, real and they really enjoy one another.
In September, 2014, something very special happened to Owen and Cheyenne; they were named Homecoming King and Queen! This was an honor bestowed upon them by their peers who saw first- hand the beauty of their friendship. They were both so thrilled!
“Owen and I couldn’t stop smiling,” says Cheyenne. “We couldn’t believe it! We hope that others will have the opportunity to experience
the kind of friendship that Owen and I share. We are always there for each other. I can’t imagine my high school experience without Owen! He just makes me laugh.”
Best Buddies has given Owen and Cheyenne an incredible platform to share their story. Their school was featured on the nightly news magazine, The New Hampshire Chronicle in November. The feature shared a day with Owen and Cheyenne at school together and in a personal interview. Their happiness and joy and genuine friendship was obvious and a great testimony to Best Buddies.
“Cheyenne is very special to me and she wears the coolest shoes. And she dances with me”, Owen says. “We do lots of fun things together
in school and out of school.” Owen’s mom Danielle says, “Owen has always been a part of the community but being best buddies with Cheyenne has brought it to a level we never expected. We wanted Owen to have a fun, memorable high school experience and Cheyenne has had a lot to do with making that happen.”
Cheyenne says, “I think the coolest part about Best Buddies is that I get just as much from being friends with Owen, if not more, than Owen
gets from being friends with me. I am grateful for the opportunity to be involved with Best Buddies and to lead my chapter at Pembroke Academy!”
MEET DUDLEY WILLIAMS III
Dudley represents the epitome of a highly successful, thriving Best Buddies Jobs participant in Boston. After graduating from the Lesley University Threshold Program several years ago, Dudley joined Best Buddies Jobs to work toward his professional goals. Dudley is a hard worker and tireless advocate for employment for people with IDD. Within a few short years, Dudley has become not only one of the strongest spokespersons for Best Buddies Jobs in Massachusetts, but has realized his ultimate goal of having a full-time job with benefits.
Before becoming involved with Best Buddies, life for Dudley was challenging. He mostly worked part-time jobs that were not utilizing his fullest potential.
After graduating from college, Dudley joined Best Buddies to strengthen his social skills, meet new people, and get a full-time job. Since starting the program in March 2012, he has grown both professionally and personally. At first, Dudley worked part-time jobs, ranging from different positions in the hospitality industry to working seasonally for the Boston Red Sox in mobility assistance, to working in the Boston Minority Business Development Agency Center, as an office assistant.
His ultimate goal was to find a full-time job. “I went in for an interview at John Hancock this past September and tried my best to answer the questions they asked me. I told them about my experiences in my previous jobs. I was very excited when I learned they wanted to hire me full-time because I had never been offered a full-time job before,” says Dudley.
Dudley’s life has changed dramatically. He has more confidence in himself, as a person, and is more independent at work. He’s made new friends as well. “Best Buddies is a great organization that gives everyone a chance. Now that I’ve achieved my goal of getting a fulltime job, I want to improve my professional relationships and work on achieving some of the goals that I have set for myself at John Hancock.”
MEET ANDRE WILLIAMS
Andre, Best Buddies Ambassador extraordinaire from Massachusetts, has been involved in four different programs and represents Massachusetts on the national Best Buddies Young Leaders Council (YLC). Andre’s involvement speaks to the success individuals can achieve when they engage with Best Buddies’ full continuum of services. Andre joined Best Buddies in high school, gained confidence and experience with social skills, and after graduation joined the Best Buddies Jobs program. As his interest in selfadvocacy grew, Andre got a job with Mass Advocates Standing Strong and began to speak at Best Buddies events, both locally and nationally. Andre, now a poised young professional in his 20s, speaks eloquently about his life experience and his growth through Best Buddies in front of diverse audiences every year.
Before Best Buddies, life for Andre was one of isolation without friends. He felt like no one really wanted to talk to him and that he was a burden to people. Two years ago in Indiana at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference, he met his best friend Harrison who was the incoming chapter president for a high school in Massachusetts. “Meeting Harrison was one of the most memorable moments for me. He just understood me and all I had been through,” says Andre.
Andre’s mom was the driving force behind him joining Best Buddies. She encouraged Andre to try it out, but told him he didn’t have to continue the program if he didn’t love it. Today, Andre’s goal as a selfadvocate is to make sure that people with disabilities’ voices are heard. “I want people with disabilities to know that there is someone who understands them. I want them to know that I’ve got their backs. Best Buddies is a family. We’ve got each other’s backs,” says Andre.
Since joining Best Buddies, Andre’s life has changed for the better. He has more self-confidence and truly believes in himself. Andre says, “I know I am capable of doing what I want to do. I met my best friend through Best Buddies and he believes in me. I have friends who love me for who I am.”
“Best Buddies has shown me that the people, who truly care about you in life, love you for who you are.”
– Reagan Vice, buddy
La Cueva High School
“I think that my life has been more enriched by
Best Buddies and I have adifferent view on society.”
– Becca Miller, peer buddy,
Nauset Regional High School
“Best Buddies has offered Sarah amazing opportunities to develop friendships with several of her awesome peers through her participation over the years in Pollard Middle School, Needham High School, and Dana Hall chapters, but her attendance at leadership conference and her chances to meet Tom Brady and his friends at the Tom Brady Football Challenges have really brought her out of her shell.”
– Michael Markowitz, Parent
“Charles is one of those individuals that can make anyone smile no matter what kind of day they are having. Charles works very hard and he shows up for his job every single day. It is a win across the board. Win for Charles, win for SVB and a win for the employees. Win! Win! Win!”
– Ken Veach, Director of Vendor Management,
Silicon Valley Bank
“I have seen a change for the better within our school culture. No longer are the students with special needs ignored, but now they are adored! They no longer walk down the hallways alone, because they have formed friendships with students, teachers, assistant principals, hall monitors, custodians, lunch workers, etc.”
– Eileen Martensen, Faculty Advisor,
Belvidere North High School
In celebration of Best Buddies Month we will be showcasing outstanding volunteers, employers, and supporters every Monday as part of our Monday Mission Moment series. This post comes from Pablo Castro, Best Buddies Ambassador and student at Southwest Miami Senior High School. He has been a part of Best Buddies for two years!
How did you learn about Best Buddies?
Pablo: I learned about Best Buddies International when I was living in Colombia. Once I moved to the United States, I became involved with the Best Buddies chapter at Southwest Miami Senior High School.
What have you learned from your involvement in Best Buddies?
Pablo: I have learned how society is involved with leadership and friendship. I have learned that being an advocate means to listen to other people’s ideas and to respect everyone fairly. My experience has also taught me that to start a friendship, I must have respect, be honest, and be fair.
How has Best Buddies changed your life?
Pablo: Being a Best Buddies Ambassador has changed my life. I feel happy to be part of this organization. I have worked very hard and with the help of my parents, am becoming more independent. I have met a lot of great people.
What do you hope to accomplish with your training in Best Buddies?
Pablo: I hope that my Best Buddies training and experience will lead me to living an independent life. I hope to continue learning, get a great job, and keep improving my social skills.
Why do you think others should join Best Buddies?
Pablo: Everyone should join Best Buddies because of all the great things it does. Best Buddies began as an organization that matched people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be paired up with people without disabilities to make a life-long friendship, but it has become so much more. It helps people get a job, create friendships, and have the opportunity to have an independent life.
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Visit bestbuddies.org/celebrate to learn how you can join our #BestBuddiesMonth celebration throughout the month of March!
Over 150 people gathered from across the island of Oahu to join in our 4th Annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk at Magic Island on Saturday, March 12, 2016. We exceeded our goal and raised over $20,000.00 with an increase of 37% from last year. Everyone was able to enjoy the wonderful entertainment, raffle prizes, food and drinks.
It was a successful campaign spearheaded by our Best Buddies staff, board and extended family. We educated the community on the Best Buddies mission and were able to spread awareness.
Best Buddies Global Ambassador Kelly Hu stepped away from her busy schedule and hosted the event while managing to raise over $5,000 for her team, Hu’s Your Buddy. It took dedication from each person to have this walk inspire the community to come out and join this wonderful cause. Thanks to our sponsors Ironstate Development, Maximum Senior Benefits, UH(Center for Disabilities Studies), Sol Simple, Matsumoto Law Group, C&J Solar and Huakai Management and many In kind donations who helped make the event possible.
Everyone enjoyed the captivating scenery and the beautiful sun at one of islands most sought after beaches. It was truly a day to remember.
Saturday, April 2, 2016
Tempe, AZ
Pyle Adult Recreation Center
Join us at the Pyle Adult Recreation Center in Tempe on Saturday, April 2nd for the 2016 Best Buddies Month Celebration! We will be holding an awards ceremony to honor the amazing things our chapters have accomplished this year. We will also have games, lunch, and music – all to celebrate the wonderful friendships and people who help make Best Buddies Arizona so great!
April 29, 2016
Catoctin, VA
Raspberry Falls Golf & Hunt
41601 Raspberry Drive
Leesburg, VA 20176
Time of Event: 7:00 am – 5:30 pm
Join us on Friday, April 29th at the FedTechCares Golf Tournament benefiting the upcoming Best Buddies Prom in the Capital Region. Best Buddies Prom is an unforgettable night of dancing, specialty food and drink, one-of-a-kind auction items, while celebrating friendships and inclusion! All proceeds will support Best Buddies programs: one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We hope you’ll join us!
To register and for more details, please visit FedTechCares Golf Tournament
Various dates
Concord, NH
New Hampshire is starting the first Ambassadors Training!
Best Buddies Ambassadors is a program that provides training for participants with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in areas of speech writing, public speaking, and self-advocacy. Ambassadors create opportunities to share their life stories and promote Best Buddies programs.
Best Buddies Ambassadors educates and empowers people with and without IDD to be leaders and public speakers in their schools, communities, and workplaces. It is the next step for the Disability Rights Movement – teaching people with IDD the skills they need to successfully advocate. The program prepares people with IDD to become active agents of change.
Ambassadors will participate in trainings focused on the art of public speaking and advocacy. Once trained, ambassadors are expected to find opportunities in their chapters and communities to share their stories and become more involved citizens. Ambassadors can speak to legislators and Best Buddies chapters; they can present at recruitment fairs and Best Buddies events. Ambassadors could also help collect donations, present to other interest groups, and train others with IDD. The Ambassadors Training will be held on Friday’s on the following dates:
TRAINING DAYS:
April 1st | April 15th | May 20th | June 10th | July 8th
For more information please contact us at (603) 856 – 8324 or via email at newhampshire@bestbuddies.org.
Training space graciously provided by:
In celebration of #BestBuddiesMonth we will be showcasing outstanding volunteers, employees, and supporters every Monday as part of our Monday Mission Moment series. This post comes from two of our long-standing Bay Area jobs participants, Sarah Hoffman and John Hammond.
Sarah and John, who have been with Best Buddies for ten and eight years, respectively, share their experience finding work and friendship at Madame Tussaud’s with support of the Best Buddies Jobs Program.
What does Best Buddies mean to you?
Sarah Hoffman: Best Buddies means leadership skills, inclusion, and employment success. It means to be accepted in society and recognized for my abilities not disabilities.
John Hammond: Best Buddies has helped people like me find a job no matter their differences.
What’s your favorite thing about Best Buddies Jobs?
Sarah: My favorite thing is getting to work with amazing coworkers, feeling successful, getting a paycheck so I can pay rent, and gaining independence.
John: My favorite thing about Best Buddies Jobs is my new job that they helped me find at Madame Tussaud’s.
What have you learned from your involvement in Best Buddies?
Sarah: I’ve learned how to see people for their strengths and recognize their talents. I’ve learned the importance of the word respect and not using the r-word.
John: I learned how to write speeches and advocate for people with disabilities.
How has Best Buddies changed your life?
Sarah: Besides meeting new friends, it has helped me to feel more confident in myself. I’ve gained more self-esteem!
John: It’s helped me find a job and it makes my life better. It makes me feel happy.
Why do you think others should join Best Buddies Jobs and hire people with IDD?
Sarah: I think other employers should hire those with IDD because it gives us a sense of pride and dignity.
John: No matter anyone’s differences, everyone deserves a job.
How would you encourage others to get involved in Best Buddies?
Sarah: Go to www.bestbuddies.org, participate in our events, and volunteer.
John: I would tell them about my great experiences with Best Buddies.
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Visit bestbuddies.org/celebrate to learn how you can join our #BestBuddiesMonth celebration throughout the month of March!
