News Archives - Best Buddies International https://www.bestbuddies.org/category/news/ Best Buddies is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:55:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 Best Buddies Jobs: A Model for Integrated Employment Opportunities https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/06/20/best-buddies-jobs-a-model-for-integrated-employment-opportunities/ Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:51:58 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=182080 The disability rights movement has made significant strides over the past decades, fighting against discrimination to advance equal access and inclusion. An ongoing challenge, however, remains expanding competitive integrated employment...

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A young woman with short hair, wearing a white shirt, talking on a phone in an office setting with colorful abstract figures in the background.

The disability rights movement has made significant strides over the past decades, fighting against discrimination to advance equal access and inclusion. An ongoing challenge, however, remains expanding competitive integrated employment, where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can earn livable wages and contribute their talents in regular workplace settings.

Read the full article here

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25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation, and the TJX Companies, Inc., Raises More Than $4 Million to Support People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/06/13/25th-anniversary-best-buddies-challenge-hyannis-port-presented-by-jersey-mikes-subs-shaws-and-star-market-foundation-and-the-tjx-companies-inc.-raises-more-than-4-million-to-support-people-with-idd Thu, 13 Jun 2024 17:50:52 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=181960 Boston, June 11, 2024 – This year, the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port brought together over 1,000 participants in a spectacular cycling, running, and walking fundraiser. Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation, and The TJX Companies, Inc. .The event spanned from Boston to Hyannis Port, raising over $4 million for Best Buddies International.

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Cyclists lined up at the starting line for the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port with the event arch and Jersey Mike's Subs banner in the background.

Boston, June 11, 2024 – This year, over 1,000 people participated in the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation and The TJX Companies, Inc. More, a cycling, run and walk fundraiser from Boston to Hyannis Port, May 31 – June 1. The Challenge raised more than $4 million in total donations for Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Drake Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and New England Patriots Quarterback, served as Honorary Chair.

The Challenge kicked off on Friday, May 31 with a reception at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum in Boston. On Saturday, June 1, hundreds of cyclists, including cycling legend Alberto Contador – winner of all three Grand Tours – the Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, and the Tour de France – and professional cyclist Cam Wurf took to the start line at the JFK Library for the picturesque 100-mile ride portion of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, from Boston to Hyannis Port. The Challenge is open to participants of all ages and abilities and is designed to showcase the Best Buddies mission in action. It also features alternative 55 and 20-mile cycling routes, and a 5K run or walk option.

The Challenge was capped off with a New England-style clambake and a private concert by guitar legend Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles, at Craigville Beach. During the clambake, executives from Shaw’s and Star Market presented Best Buddies with a $435,000 donation raised from the company’s Spring 2024 in-store register campaign in over 140 stores throughout New England for Best Buddies programs. Best Buddies’ founder Anthony K. Shriver also encouraged guests to “Sponsor a Buddy” (to attend the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference in July) through the Drake Maye Football Toss, a tradition initiated by former Honorary Chair and Best Buddies Global Ambassador Tom Brady. Maye tossed signed footballs to guests who paid $2,000 for each one, giving Best Buddies participants the opportunity to attend the conference. In total, the football toss raised $16,000 and auction for Pinarello’s new Dogma F Road Bike raised $21,000 at Saturday’s clambake in Hyannis Port.

The event was another record-breaking success, and an excellent stride in making the world more inclusive for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Below are the top riders and top fundraising teams for the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

Top 15 Fundraising Teams

  1. Team Morgan Stanley
  2. Team King James Buddies
  3. Team ServiceNow
  4. Team Sunshine
  5. Team SVB/FC
  6. Team Susan G
  7. Team Natixis
  8. MACK Cycle
  9. Team Mal’s Pals
  10. Team Wyatt – Domestiques
  11. Team Greenberg Traurig
  12. Team Volvo
  13. Xcitebike Racing
  14. PDC Inc.
  15. Team Papa Wheelies

Top 15 Individual Fundraisers

  1. James Hintlian
  2. Mark DeVincentis
  3. John Griffin
  4. Peter Barlow
  5. Matthew Falconeiri
  6. Mark Strode
  7. Nicholas Shaink
  8. Brett Lyons
  9. Terri Port
  10. Stephen Parish
  11. Harry Kubetz
  12. John Adams
  13. Alan Janson
  14. John Saidnawey
  15. Manuel Resendes

This year’s Challenge sponsors included: Presenting Sponsors Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation and The TJX Companies, Inc.; Hyannis Port Club Sponsors BODYARMORThe Official Water & Sports Beverage Partner of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, Wells Fargo, WHDH/Channel 7; Cape Club Sponsors Coca-ColaThe Official Beverage Partner of Best Buddies, Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN) of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Inc., and Volvo Car USA; Craigville Beach Club Sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Crescent Capital Partners, Greenberg Traurig, Morgan Stanley, Mark Edward Partners, Santana Team, ServiceNow, Sevita, Silicon Valley Bank, A Division of First Citizens Bank, Teddie Peanut Butter, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Media Sponsor WHDH/Channel 7The Official Media Sponsor of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port; Official Bike Sponsor Pinarello; In-Kind Sponsors Cape Air, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and Harpoon BreweryThe Official Beer Sponsor of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

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Miracle Recreation and Best Buddies International Announce Groundbreaking Playground Design Partnership, Creating a Global Standard for Inclusive Play https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/06/11/miracle-recreation-and-best-buddies-international-announce-groundbreaking-playground-design-partnership-creating-a-global-standard-for-inclusive-play/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:48:21 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=181937 Miracle® Recreation and Best Buddies International announce a groundbreaking partnership to create inclusive playgrounds and Buddy Benches, setting a new standard for accessibility. Developed through Agency Shmagency, this initiative aims to provide inclusive and accessible equipment for people of all ages and abilities.

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Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century, and Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), today announce an ambitious program to develop Best Buddies inclusive commercial playgrounds and Buddy Benches. Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation playgrounds will be designed to provide a new standard of best-in-class inclusive and accessible playground equipment for all ages and abilities. This first of its kind partnership was developed through Agency Shmagency, an innovative sales and marketing consultancy with a global client roster.

MONETT, Mo., June 11, 2024Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century, and Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), today announce an ambitious program to develop Best Buddies inclusive commercial playgrounds and Buddy Benches. Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation playgrounds will be designed to provide a new standard of best-in-class inclusive and accessible playground equipment for all ages and abilities. This first of its kind partnership was developed through Agency Shmagency, an innovative sales and marketing consultancy with a global client roster.

“We are thrilled to be working with Miracle Recreation on this groundbreaking initiative,” said Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies’ founder, chairman, and chief executive officer. “No other playground manufacturer has as rich a history and quality of relationships with schools, parks and recreation agencies, and municipalities, that they do. Together, we aim to dramatically accelerate the path to achieving universal access to inclusive and accessible play and social experiences for the IDD community.”

Miracle Recreation’s dedicated team of design and manufacturing experts will ensure the consistent production and delivery of an extensive range of inclusive and accessible playground equipment that achieves new standards. Going forward, the company’s global sales and marketing network will also seek new partnerships with corporations that have demonstrated a commitment to corporate social responsibility in the communities they represent.

“Through this partnership, we will create one commonly accepted set of inclusive play standards that schools, municipalities, and parks and recreation agencies can count on when they’re seeking requests for proposals on their inclusive and accessible playground projects,” said Mike Sutton, vice president of global sales for Miracle Recreation. “Best Buddies International is a global leader on inclusion and the perfect partner for such an important initiative.”

Miracle Recreation and Best Buddies International expect to have their Best Buddies Buddy Benches and first inclusive playgrounds installed in 2024.

“Our industry has made great strides in tackling the important issue of inclusion, over the last 10-15 years, but more can be done,” said Todd Brinker, senior vice president, commercial growth, for outdoor play at PlayPower®, Miracle Recreation’s parent company. “Paired with Best Buddies thought leadership and expertise in the IDD community, we have the unique opportunity to dramatically expand the number of quality inclusive play spaces in communities across North America. Our goal is that by 2027, the majority of all new Miracle playgrounds installed will be Best Buddies Inclusive Playgrounds.”

Several Best Buddies + Miracle inclusive playground projects are currently in development, the first of which will be announced soon. For more information on Best Buddies + Miracle inclusive playgrounds, visit www.Miracle-Recreation.com/Best-Buddies.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

About Miracle® Recreation
Founded nearly a century ago, Miracle Recreation inspires communities to develop kids with the character to lead tomorrow through its high-quality playgrounds. A division of PlayPower®, Inc., Miracle Recreation, pioneers the world of thrilling commercial outdoor play equipment with the belief that a lifetime of self-discovery, independence, and leadership begins on a playground. That’s where children experience perceived risks, which challenge and transform them, opening their minds to new perspectives. To learn more, visit Miracle-Recreation.com.

Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

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7NEWS team members join hundreds of bikers for annual Best Buddies Challenge https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/06/04/7news-team-members-join-hundreds-of-bikers-for-annual-best-buddies-challenge/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 16:02:31 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=181851 HYANNIS, MASS. (WHDH) - Members of the 7NEWS team and hundreds of other riders hit the road Saturday for the Best Buddies Challenge, a bike ride to raise money for the organization.

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Anthony K. Shriver, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Best Buddies International poses with a Best Buddies program participant in Hyannis Port, MA.

HYANNIS, MASS. (WHDH) – Members of the 7NEWS team and hundreds of other riders hit the road Saturday for the Best Buddies Challenge, a bike ride to raise money for the organization.

Watch the full video here

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Patriots QB Drake Maye says it’s an ‘honor’ to work with Best Buddies ahead of bike challenge https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/06/04/patriots-qb-drake-maye-says-its-an-honor-to-work-with-best-buddies-ahead-of-bike-challenge/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:50:23 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=181846 BOSTON (WHDH) – Saturday kicks off the annual Best Buddies bike ride to Hyannis Port. New Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is the honorary chair of this year’s Best Buddies Challenge.

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Drake Maye is being interviewed by WSVN Channel 7 reporter.

BOSTON (WHDH) – Saturday kicks off the annual Best Buddies bike ride to Hyannis Port. The non-profit group raises money to help people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and 7News is a proud partner.

New Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is the honorary chair of this year’s Best Buddies Challenge.

Watch the full video here

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Best Buddies International Host Its 7th Annual Celebration Of Mothers In Nashville, TN https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/05/06/best-buddies-international-host-its-7th-annual-celebration-of-mothers-in-nashville-tn/ Mon, 06 May 2024 21:59:16 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=180828 Nashville, TN, May 6, 2024 - Best Buddies International hosted its 7th Annual Best Buddies’ Celebration of Mothers this past Saturday, May 4, in Nashville, TN. The event celebrated mothers all around the world...

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Organization Officially Launched Its Eunie’s Buddies Program To Empower Families On Their Journey Of Raising A Child With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities

Nashville, TN, May 6, 2024Best Buddies International, a nonprofit founded in 1989 to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), hosted its 7th Annual Best Buddies’ Celebration of Mothers this past Saturday, May 4, in Nashville, TN. The event celebrated mothers all around the world, with a special focus on the remarkable mothers of Best Buddies participants, paying homage to the gifts of love and friendship they give to their children.

This year held special significance as Best Buddies officially launched its newest mission pillar, Family Support. This initiative offered families the support and resources needed to navigate the journey of raising a child with IDD through the Eunie’s Buddies program, named affectionately in honor of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics and a true hero who advocated tirelessly for positive change in the lives of individuals with IDD.

“Mothers serve as pillars of love, friendship, and strength within their families,” said Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Best Buddies International. “My mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, will always be my hero, and I am thankful for her enduring spirit which guides me in the work I do today on behalf of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her unending love and guidance inspired our Eunie’s Buddies program. With this initiative, we’re committed to ensuring that families and individuals with IDD receive the support and resources needed to thrive and pursue their dreams just like everyone else.”

The 7th Annual Best Buddies Celebrating Mothers honored Best Buddies’ Mother of the Year — Ellen Boyer. Ellen, founder and president of the Nashville-based Brett Boyer Foundation, showed incredible resilience and compassion. Following the loss of her firstborn, Sadie Brett Boyer, to congenital heart disease, Ellen and her husband Bo turned their grief into action, focusing on funding CHD research, supporting affected families, and promoting inclusion within the Down syndrome community. Their partnership with Best Buddies since 2018 had enriched lives and spread hope through their generous contributions and unwavering support.

Guests enjoyed delectable cocktails, a gourmet lunch, and special live musical performances by country singer-songwriter Sarahbeth Taite, and Grammy-winning and Emmy-nominated songwriter Desmond Child, who performed with Best Buddies Ambassador Marlana VanHoose, an acclaimed singer who captivates audiences with her powerful and soulful voice, while Buddy Ambassadors Fran Sheinberg and Olivia DeCaria moved the crowd with inspirational speeches. Guests also enjoyed beautiful floral arrangements from bouquet box, an ice cream mixing station provided by Cold Stone Creamery, and other fun family fun and activities such as axe throwing, and a build-a- bear station. Philanthropists and Best Buddies celebrity supporters alike joined Best Buddies’ Founder,

Anthony Kennedy Shriver, to generate even greater awareness of the organization’s mission of inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information, please contact Mark Wylie, Vice President, Talent Relations, at Best Buddies International: MarkWylie@BestBuddies.org.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

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New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye Named Honorary Chair Of 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented By Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s And Star Market Foundation And The TJX Companies, Inc. https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/05/06/new-england-patriots-quarterback-drake-maye-named-honorary-chair-of-25th-anniversary-best-buddies-challenge-hyannis-port/ Mon, 06 May 2024 16:47:32 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=180802 Best Buddies International is pleased to announce that New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye will serve as Honorary Chair of the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

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Quarterback Drake Maye throwing a football.

Boston, May 6, 2024 – Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is pleased to announce that the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye will serve as Honorary Chair of the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation and The TJX Companies, Inc. More than 1,500 people are expected to participate in the Challenge – a charity ride, run, and walk to benefit Best Buddies International.

“Best Buddies is thrilled to commemorate the 25th anniversary of our Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, an event that was chaired by Tom Brady for 20 years and alone raised over $100 million for Best Buddies programs,” said Anthony K. Shriver, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Best Buddies International. “Additionally, we are incredibly grateful to celebrate this year’s event with New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye serving as our Honorary Chair. Drake will bring a new level of energy and excitement to our event, and we look forward to building a long-lasting friendship with him to keep pushing our mission forward in the years to come.”

The Challenge kicks off on Friday, May 31 with a reception at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston. On Saturday, June 1, hundreds of cyclists, including cycling legend Alberto Contador – winner of all three Grand Tours – the Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, and the Tour de France – and professional cyclist Cam Wurf will take the starting line at the JFK Library for the picturesque 100-mile ride portion of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, from Boston to Hyannis Port. The Challenge is open to participants of all ages and abilities and is designed to showcase the Best Buddies mission in action. It also features alternative 55 and 20-mile cycling routes, and a 5K run or walk option.

During the Challenge, Drake will interact with fans and supporters of Best Buddies at each of the weekend’s festivities, including a New England-style clambake and a private concert by guitar legend Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles, at Craigville Beach. Best Buddies and Drake Maye will bring back the legendary football toss, a tradition initiated by former Honorary Chair and Best Buddies Global Ambassador Tom Brady. Drake will also play golf with some of Best Buddies’ top supporters at the Hyannis Port Golf Club, capping off a weekend filled with fun, friendship and inclusion in support of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To join Team Drake Maye, please register HERE.

This year’s Challenge sponsors include: Presenting Sponsors Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation and The TJX Companies, Inc.; Hyannis Port Club Sponsors BODYARMOR – The Official Water & Sports Beverage Partner of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, Wells Fargo, WHDH/Channel 7; Cape Club Sponsors Coca-Cola – The Official Beverage Partner of Best Buddies, Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN) of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Inc., and Volvo Car USA; Craigville Beach Club Sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Crescent Capital Partners, Greenberg Traurig, Morgan Stanley, Mark Edward Partners, Santana Team, ServiceNow, Sevita, Silicon Valley Bank, A Division of First Citizens Bank, Teddie Peanut Butter, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Media Sponsor WHDH/Channel 7 – The Official Media Sponsor of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port; Official Bike Sponsor Pinarello; In-Kind Sponsors Cape Air, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and Harpoon Brewery – The Official Beer Sponsor of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

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Best Buddies International to Host Its 7th Annual Celebration of Mothers in Nashville, TN https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/05/01/best-buddies-international-to-host-its-7th-annual-celebration-of-mothers-in-nashville-tn/ Wed, 01 May 2024 15:50:10 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=180660 Organization Will Officially Launch Its Eunie's Buddies Program to Empower Families on Their Journey of Raising a Child With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Nashville, TN, May 1, 2024

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Organization Will Officially Launch Its Eunie’s Buddies Program to Empower Families on Their Journey of Raising a Child With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Celebrating Mothers and Launch of Eunie's Buddies

Nashville, TN, May 1, 2024 – Best Buddies International, a nonprofit founded in 1989 to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is excited to announce its 7th Annual Best Buddies’ Celebration of Mothers this Saturday, May 4, in Nashville, TN. The event will celebrate mothers all around the world, with a special focus on the remarkable mothers of Best Buddies participants, paying homage to the gifts of love and friendship they give to their children.

In a tropical outdoor setting, a mother and father is smiling, while holding their daughter with Down Syndrome. This year holds special significance as Best Buddies will officially launch its newest mission pillar, Family Support. This initiative offers families the support and resources needed to navigate the journey of raising a child with IDD through the Eunie’s Buddies program, named affectionately in honor of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics and a true hero who advocated tirelessly for positive change in the lives of individuals with IDD.

“Mothers serve as pillars of love, friendship, and strength within their families,” said Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Best Buddies International. “My mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, will always be my hero, and I am thankful for her enduring spirit which guides me in the work I do today on behalf of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her unending love and guidance inspired our Eunie’s Buddies program. With this initiative, we’re committed to ensuring that families and individuals with IDD receive the support and resources needed to thrive and pursue their dreams just like everyone else.”

Outside alongside a wooded fence overlooking a pond and wooded area, there are 4 people posing for a picture. From left to right: Bo and his wife Ellen Boyer, who proudly holds a picture of their daughter Sadie Brett Boyer, standing alongside Caroline and Country music artist Luke Bryan.
From left to right: Bo and his wife Ellen Boyer, who proudly holds a picture of their daughter Sadie Brett Boyer, standing alongside Caroline and Country music artist Luke Bryan.

The 7th Annual Best Buddies Celebrating Mothers will honor Best Buddies’ Mother of the Year — Ellen Boyer. Ellen, founder and president of the Nashville-based Brett Boyer Foundation, has shown incredible resilience and compassion. Following the loss of her firstborn, Sadie Brett Boyer, to congenital heart disease, Ellen and her husband Bo turned their grief into action, focusing on funding CHD research, supporting affected families, and promoting inclusion within the Down syndrome community. Their partnership with Best Buddies since 2018 has enriched lives and spread hope through their generous contributions and unwavering support.

Guest will enjoy delectable cocktails, a gourmet lunch, and special live musical performances by country singer-songwriter Sarahbeth Taite, and Grammy-winning and Emmy-nominated songwriter Desmond Child, who will perform with Best Buddies Ambassador Marlana VanHoose, an acclaimed singer who captivates audiences with her powerful and soulful voice. Philanthropists and Best Buddies celebrity supporters alike will join Best Buddies’ Founder, Anthony Kennedy Shriver, to generate an even greater awareness of the organization’s mission of inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Event Sponsors

Title Sponsor:
Richard Carolan

Presenting Sponsor:
Anthony Pratt

Mission Sponsor:
Don List
DNI Corp
Effy

For event tickets please visit Celebrating Mothers.

For more information, please contact Mark Wylie, Vice President, Talent Relations, at Best Buddies International: MarkWylie@BestBuddies.org.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

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Joshua Felder’s Still Got Next https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/04/12/joshua-felders-still-got-next/ Fri, 12 Apr 2024 21:53:11 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=179510 Josh Felder is still getting the hang of his superpowers. He’s starred in a feature film, sure. Danced alongside The Weeknd, yes. But if you talk to Felder, this is only the beginning.

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The Best Buddies ambassador, actor and Lightning guest of honor has spent his life flipping the script on autism

Joshua Felder, Best Buddies Ambassador, stands alongside two hockey players on the ice rink, captivating a large crowd.

Josh Felder is still getting the hang of his superpowers.

He’s starred in a feature film, sure. Danced alongside The Weeknd, yes. But if you talk to Felder, this is only the beginning.

The Tampa native’s abilities were born out of out of hardship through a life with high-functioning autism. A complicated lifelong condition that, through Tampa’s award-winning Best Buddies program, he’s parlayed into a Global Ambassador position and one heck of a resume.

Read the full article here.

Joshua Felder, Best Buddies Ambassador, stands alongside two hockey players on the ice rink, exchanging handshakes with one of the players, captivating a large crowd.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

The post Joshua Felder’s Still Got Next appeared first on Best Buddies International.

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Detroit Pistons Host Best Buddies Night  https://www.bestbuddies.org/2024/04/10/detroit-pistons-host-best-buddies-night/ Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:18:45 +0000 https://www.bestbuddies.org/?p=179428 The Detroit Pistons hosted a Best Buddies Night with Best Buddies in Michigan on March 9 when they took on the Dallas Mavericks. 

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Michigan State Director Jonathan Ganci (left) with participants.

Detroit, MI, April 10, 2024 — The Detroit Pistons hosted a Best Buddies Night with Best Buddies in Michigan, the state branch of Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), on March 9 when they took on the Dallas Mavericks. 

The Pistons recognized Best Buddies’ efforts to spread inclusion throughout the game. Best Buddies participants were invited to join the Pistons’ high-five line, getting to meet and encourage the Pistons’ players prior to the game.  

The participants received free Pistons gear, and after the game, participants were invited onto the floor to shoot a free throw. The Pistons also donated a percentage of ticket proceeds to Best Buddies in Michigan to benefit local programs. 

Learn more about Best Buddies in Michigan here. 

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants ineach of the 50 states and in 45countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org

The post Detroit Pistons Host Best Buddies Night  appeared first on Best Buddies International.

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