Best Buddies International, Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Intellectual Disabilities, Opportunities

When I was young, many years ago, there was a young woman that lived near me that had an intellectual disability. I use to get very upset because the other kids would tease her. I found out that she was a gifted artist and we would talk for hours about her painting and what they meant to her. I felt bad that the other kids teased her and she said it did not matter because she had me as a friend. She passed away a few years later and to this day when I look at the picture she gave me I was so happy I was her friend.



I read a recent article written by Anthony K. Shriver to Dear Abby in reference to a young girl that had written in about wanting to help other students be more accepting of kids with special needs. I am copying most of the letter below because I feel more people should get involved with organizations such as this one.



"My name is Anthony Kennedy Shriver, and I am the founder of Best Buddies International, a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment."



"I believe that friendship is the key to building the self-esteem essential to a happy and productive life, and that is why I started Best Buddies. In just two decades, Best Buddies has grown from one chapter to more than 1,400 chapters in 42 countries, Our six programs- Best Buddies Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies and Jobs- positively impact more than 400, 000 individuals with and without intellectual disabilities annually."



"At Best Buddies, we envision a world where people with intellectual disabilities are recognized for their ABILITIES, embraced by society and valued in the workplace. Until that vision becomes a reality, we will continue to educate middle school, high school and college students; community members; corporations and employers about the emotional, functional and natural needs and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities."



I showed the story to my niece and she was very impressed and went to Best Buddies.org

and has decided to start a chapter at her high school when school start back up . I told her I would help in any way I can.



It is important in today's society that children get involved in the community and realize that the world does not revolve around only themselves but everyone's lives are intertwined.



Best Buddies seems to be a Great Organization and I commend Mr. Shriver for starting it.



If you have children I recommend you talk with them and see if they would like to start a chapter at school. I wish there had been something like this around back when I knew Chris.



Most people with intellectual disabilites have so much happiness inside them just waiting for someone to take the first step to let it come out. They are creative, fun loving, caring, and wonderful people and can add so much to our lives.



go to BestBuddies.org and get more information



Thank you Mr. Shriver



Susan Stevens