What is an intellectual Disability?
An individual with an intellectual disability is a person with an intellectual functioning level (IQ) below 70-75; significant limitations exist in two or more adaptive skills areas; and the condition is present from childhood. Nearly 87 percent of people with intellectual disabilities are mildly affected and have the capability to lead a somewhat independent and successful life. Best Buddies International, founded by Anthony Kennedy Shriver in 1989, is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilites by providing them with opportunities for one-to-one friendships and with good jobs.
THE STORIES IN THE PROGRAM
Hardy Wood (College Buddies)
After his father died, Hardy’s sisters began to take an active role in his care. They were looking for an organization that could help Hardy become more socially involved with others. Best Buddies was the answer. Now Hardy is an active member of the College Buddies Program, with his peer buddy Kevin. They enjoy watching and attending sporting events, going out to eat, and many other fun activities. Through their experiences together, they have become close friends.
Maggie Rousselle (High School Buddies)
Maggie is part of a High Schools Best Buddies chapter. She enjoys spending time with her peer buddy Kelsey watching movies, bowling, playing cards, and talking.  Maggie’s mother became an advocate for Best Buddies by starting a High Schools Best Buddies chapter at Maggie’s High School. This eventually led to the full establishment of a Best Buddies office in her state.
J’Erica Jetson (Middle School Buddies)
J’Erica is 13 years old, although she looks younger due to some  developmental and growth delays. But that doesn’t stop her from being a part of the Best Buddies Middle School chapter at her school. Just recently, her parents have begun to get her more involved in social activities with children outside of her family and church circle. Her peer buddy Swati takes time to be an important part of J’Erica’s life- through a one to one friendship.
BEST BUDDIES PROGRAMS:
Best Buddies Middle Schools
Oftentimes, young students with intellectual disabilities are not allowed to participate in the social pulse of school life. Best Buddies Middle Schools pairs students with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with other middle school students, enhancing the buddy’s socialization and self esteem.
Best Buddies High Schools
Program that pairs high school students with intellectual disabilities and those without intellectual disabilities in one to one friendships. The program enhances both the buddy and the peer buddy as they help each other out.
Best Buddies Colleges
Many adults with intellectual disabilities don’t have many opportunities to interact with other people in society- often staying at home. College Peer Buddies volunteer countless hours in one to one friendships with adults who have intellectual disablities- helping them to explore a new way of life and to bring out their best.
e-Buddies™
With technology and computers enjoying a heyday of use, people with intellectual disabilities are often left out of this experience. Through e-Buddies, buddies are able to use technology to make new friends- in a safe way. This is just another way Best Buddies helps people with intellectual disabilities to integrate into society.
Best Buddies Citizens
Best Buddies Citizens pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one to one friendships with other individuals in the corporate and civic communities. Volunteers share time with their buddies, breaking down the barrier of marginalization that so many of them have suffered through.
Best Buddies Jobs
An innovative program to help people with intellectual disabilities to secure good, competitive jobs. This effort also helps with support and training- giving individuals with intellectual disabilities the chance to work alongside other people in society.
 
|
