FALL/WINTER| 16

A&E’s Born This Way Wins an Emmy for “Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program”

It’s originality and authenticity earned it three Prime- time Emmy nominations in the categories of “Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program,” and two nominations for “Outstanding Picture Editing.”

Born This Way won the Emmy for “Outstanding Un- structured Reality Program!” It beat out formidable contenders like Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch, HBO’s Project Greenlight, and CNN’s United Shades of America. The cast was excited and en- thusiastic as they walked to the stage to receive the award.

The show received another successful achievement as viewership has risen 67% over the course of its initial six-episode run. Fans have become addicted to the heart-warming stories and moments Born This Way repeatedly delivers. Viewers and the en- tertainment industry have both unanimously agreed The cast from Born This Way accepts the award for “Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program” at the Emmy Awards that Born This Way is an innovative and fresh series that not only entertains, but brings about social change. In December 2015, the A&E Network launched the ground-breaking docu-series, Born This Way. The Congratulations, Born This Way! series is one-of-kind in its chronicle of seven young adults with Down syndrome in Southern California. The show is honest in its portrayals and shows viewers the private struggles and triumphs of indi- viduals with intellectual and developmental disabili- ties (IDD). 2 FALL/WINTER| 16 Christina Hundley, University ofSouth Florida Buddy, ChristinaHundley Buddy Spotlight: me a karaoke machine to helpme open up more. place inmy heart! At the age of nine my aunt gave things I holddear, but singing also has a special and Gaining friends beingindependentare two cess. have putme on the road for the past 11 years. These friendships and my job the Fresh Food Company atUSFwhere I’ve worked friendships,I theconfidencea job gained at tofind program. With the support of my Best Buddies’ sition After Grad where am I a part of the STAGES (Successful Tran- through high school and now through college at USF everyMy day. BestBuddies’ carriedfriendships me friendship gave me something to look forward to felt protected from everyone’s teasing and her with my middleschool buddy because helpedme I until I found Best Buddies cameback.er wasSchool hard was forme. I teased offdropped me at mygr raised by my aunt, BJ, in I was born at Tampa General Hospital in1983; I was which alsohelpedme gain too. friends independencea my gained BuddiesBest participant and Global Ambassador. I readers. I am a University ofSouth Florida (USF) excitedam to share alittle about my life with Hello, everyone! My nameisChristina Hundley. I Best Buddies Global Ambassador Ch Global Ambassador Buddies Best the the Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Challenge: Best Buddies Castle uation for Exceptional Students) andmother’s house and nev- Floridaafter my parents to independence andsuc- in middle school. My bond fter joining Best Buddies, Buddies, Best joining fter ristina Hundley ristina singing duringsinging

and Best Buddies International Global Ambassador Byline

Challenge: Hyannis Port Hyannis Challenge: Hearst Castle been invited tosing at the ty tosing at Friendship and share itwith the worl dies helpedme take my lo Afterwards, my love music of flourished. Best Bud- ing tothe the ning Of all my accomplishments, I am proudest of win- this greatorganization! proudand I’m of what I’ve accomplished thanks to BestBuddieshelped look. you areandwhat you do that matters— nothow you tics or hobbies. The moral of my story is that it’s who exactly thesame combination of traits, characteris- as “being the only one of its kind.” Nobody shares of my favorite words: “unique.” The word is defined In closing, I want to leave you with athought on one lot of amazing experiences thanks to Best Buddies! stage in front of thousand ference Best Buddies Global Ambassador Christina Hundley Hundley Christina Global Ambassador Buddies Best in Indiana this past summer to perform on 2016 Buddy Talent 27 th AnnualBest BuddiesLeadership Con- in California and the Walks in Tampa and have have and Tampa in Walks in Massachusetts. in d. I have had the opportuni- s of people. I have had a ve andpassion for singing Best Buddies Challenge: Best BuddiesChallenge: me find my “uniqueness,” “uniqueness,” my find me competition and travel- Best Buddies 3 FALL/WINTER| 16 Chelsea Factor, Manager, Inaugural BestBuddies Adventure: Aspen dies Challenge towards those who have taken on the Best his growing passion for cycling andhis gratitude off for the ride,Anthony a shared words fewabout legendary cyclist Lance Armstrong. Before taking Founder and Chairman An were greeted by Best Buddies International neighborhood afor pre-ride breakfast where they Cyclists met bright and early inacozy Aspen tunity to soak in all of Aspen’s beauty. premierroad cycling tour, giving guests theoppor- mountain bike excursion, morning hikes and a newdaybroughta Each venturea thegroup: for Aspen’sof most delectable restaurants. five-star, award winning hotel, and dined at some pen, Colorado. Guests stayed Little at The Nell,a Buddies Adventure In July, Best Buddies hosted its first ever a 100km ride to Ruedi Re temperatures in the low 50s, perfect conditions for It was acrisp morning with clear blue skies with (IDD). anddevelopmental tual disabilities Anthony K. Shriver with legendary cyclist Lance Armstrong K. with legendarycyclist Shriver Anthony Best Buddies International Founder and Chairman, Founder International andChairman, Buddies Best to support individu in the breathtaking city of As- Miami Challenge servoir, an Aspen treas- thony K.Shriver and als with intellec- & OmaarYemini, Director, National Development and Best Bud-

tuned! years to turn this opportunity into a reality. Stay mitment of $250,000 per year for the first three areWe looking for additional support to get a com- in this beautiful city. town will allow usto continue expanding our efforts securing competitive jobs in Aspen. Getting our programs in their schools and opening an office inColorado, which will be based portant progress. Best Buddies isworking towards The overall successof the event has ledto im- pen with LanceArmstrong leading the way. took off down the rolling canyons and valleys of As- ure. Twenty cyclists clipped into their pedals and

Cyclists highway down cruising Cyclists scenic Aspen’s Best Buddies Challenges Buddies Best for buddies to work in for

4 FALL/WINTER| 16 ties,” report, and the Best Buddies Jobs website. Disabili- and Developmental with Intellectual People Institute for Corporate Productivity’s “Employing porters. Moreover, the page included links to the materials, and posters to resources page to supply guidance, social media partments, Best Buddies launchedits own NDEAM Through effective collaboration between de- these employmentall. for couldand participants high media campaign designed so that all offices, staff, and Jobs departments, created aNDEAM social relations department, working with the marketing For the second year, the Best Buddies government employment opportunity for all people." and communities, and to pr to ourworkplaces bring disabilities with dividuals in- and that totheAmericans embrace skills talents (NDEAM). In the proclamation, he said: "I urge all Awareness Month Disability Employment tional President Barack Obama declared October as Na- Lisa Derx, VicePresident, and Christopher R. Wierzbowski, Deput 2016 National Disability Awareness Month Kevin Casey, Best Buddies New York Jobs program participant, was one of the presenters at the #NDEAM Awards hosted at the Whitney atthe at #NDEAM hosted Awards presenters the one of the Whitney inspireand empower sup- light the importance of omote the right to equal y Director, Government Relations, Best Buddies International From Massachusetts to California, Best Buddies of- -VR. Disa Peoplewith for Office Mayor's City New of onbehalf the York IDD with als organizationsto who have Manhattan earlier this month. Hepresented awards hosted at the Museum ofWhitney American Art in Conservancy, presented at the #NDEAM Awards and aemployeeipant the Park Central full-time at New Kevin York. Casey, aBest Buddies Jobs partic- highlightsof the monthcomes fromBestBuddies Jobs participants andemployer partners. One of the -focused pictures and stories about Best Buddies mission with great, was NDEAM filled campaign The interactions grew by 40%. the total audience increased by 26.3% and the total comments. In comparison to the 2015 campaign, ed 5,206 interactions such as retweets, shares, and These posts had anaudien 87 posts on Facebook, Overall, Best Buddies’ NDEAM campaign resulted in mental disabilities. disabilities. mental ploymentwithpeople for importance of competitiv fices across the country helped bring attention to the Instagram and Twitter. e, community-based em- intellectual anddevelop- helpedemploy individu- bilities as well ACCES as as bilities ce of 183,027 and creat- 5 FALL/WINTER| 16 als Board. yearThis Champ was hiredat the Apple Buddies NorthernBest California Young Profession- lege, and just recently was chosen to serve on the volvement inthe Best Buddies chapter at Taft Col- ter. After graduating in 2006, he continued his in- the acting buddy director for the Best Buddies chap- cacy during his years at Pa Champ began his passion leadershipfor andadvo- Tyger, turned his ideainto areality. and aleader. Champ, with the helpof his brother Champ isand his ability to bea friend, a coworker, Best Buddies and to promote awareness of who gan, “Live a Like Champ,” was created to benefit The cap, which promotes the Pederson family slo- Center Fielder. Champ’s younger brother and LosAngeles Dodgers’ ship between New EraCapsandJoc Pederson, with the slogan, “Live Like pant and California native In 2015, Champ Pederson, a Best Buddies partici- Katelyn Quintero, AreaDirector, BestBuddies California Best BuddiesCalifornia:LiveLike a Champ Champ Pederson promoting Pederson hisnewChamp “Livelike aChamp” line, hat aChamp” asa partner- launched hisown capline lo Alto High School as proceeds benefit Best Buddies’ programs. www.livelikeachamp.com caps and t-shirts can now be purchased online at The “Live Like aChamp” even when challenges. experiencing others, and reminding people to “live achamp,” like Champ travels the country sharing his story with jokes that he will not expose any of Apple’s secrets. Apple specialist. He takes pridein his work and store in Palo Alto where hecurrently works asan The Pederson Brothers: Tyger, Champ, and Champ, Tyger, Joc Brothers: The Pederson . Thirty-onepercentof the brand hasexpanded and 6 FALL/WINTER| 16

Annual Best Buddies Buddies Best Annual

th 27 David Quilleon Leadership Conference Vice President, Global Mission, State Development & Operations,

Students celebrating friendship during the during friendship celebrating Students Best Buddies Global Ambassadors Lauren Potter and Jamie Brewer with Senior An- th 27 The Next Family else enjoys to our pro- our to else enjoys witnessed the positive positive the witnessed fulfilling friendships, sat- Executive Producer Jona- Executive . This year’s conference conference year’s . This a Rio de Janeiro themed themed Janeiro de a Rio ; performance between Mar- between performance Born ThisWay Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference Leadership Best Buddies Annual

th ; a Friendship Walk Friendship ; a

nual Best Buddies International Leadership Confer- International Best Buddies nual Buddies ence: All for Best theme,for“All Buddies,” the Best im- emphasized session with former NFL player Tony Richardson; A Richardson; Tony player NFL former with session the documentary of screening Door ly saying is ‘all for Lisa.’” Shriver reminded the crowd crowd the reminded Shriver Lisa.’” for ‘all is saying ly same the bring to is mission Buddies Best the that everyone that opportunities gram participants,as such isfyingself-advocacy employment, skills. and conference the from moments Some memorable duet a special included: “When we say ‘all for Best Buddies’ what we’re real- lana VanHoose and Brittany Maier; a Hollywood Hollywood a Maier; lana VanHoose and Brittany with panel than Murray and Actresses Jaime Brewer, and Lau- and Brewer, Jaime and Actresses than Murray IDD popula- growing the discussed who ren Potter, Q&A and speech a motivational television; on tion portance of commitment and dedication to the Best Best the to dedication and commitment of portance meetto attendees allowed Buddies’ mission, and the world. over all from their peers with and engage per- festive a with began opening ceremonies The Smith, Lisa participant Buddies’ Best from formance performedwho sign-language a rendition of auditorium The packed Everything.” “Try Shakira’s began. ceremonies the as danced cheered and Chairman Founder and International Best Buddies a by stage the onto ushered was K. Shriver Anthony confer- on the expounded and drumline rhythmic Smith. with stage the sharing while theme, ence’s

Over 2,300 student leaders, volunteers, and staff staff and volunteers, leaders, student 2,300 Over pro- International’s Buddies Best from members in the participated world the around grams

27 International Buddies Best Communications, Coordinator, Pendas, Madari carnival; A performance by Rapper Kid Quill; and an Rapper Kid Quill;and by A performance carnival; Au- and friendship expert with workshop educational Nelson. Shasta thor the stu- galvanized and inspired conference The who volunteers, dents and changes being made across the globe and the ways ways the globe and the made across being changes the left they lives; changed have friendships their the in- to make a more world motivated conference with IDD. place for people clusive 7 FALL/WINTER| 16 experiencesshare myon withYork Anthony to represent Best Buddies and Florida,” said Morilla. “I was honoredto travel to New fore, like attending sporting events here in South places anddo things I moneyThe I’ve made at my job hashelped me go Miami,cythanksprogram.toBuddiesJobs theBest “I’ve worked for nearly 20 years at the Hyatt Regen- long. same job at the Hyatt in DowntownMiami for just as Buddies morefor than 20 years and has held the Buddy Ambassador.He has beeninvolvedwith Best Morilla isAnthony K.Shri mentors. and encouraged others to co shared inspirational stories from across the nation, closetothe mentoring help of graduation gap, and celebritymedia whohighlighted figures therole American GraduateDay Day to takepart in best buddy Jorge Morilla, traveled to New YorkCity Founder and Chairman Anthony K.Shriver and his On September 17, 2016 Best Buddies International Nicole Maddox, SeniorManager, Sponsor Development &Communications, Best Buddies International Best Buddies Ambassador Rece show. Hosted byJournalist Soledad O’Brien, PBS’ 5th Annual American Graduate Journalist Soledad O’Brien, Best Buddies Ambassador Jorge Morilla, and Best Buddies International Morilla, and International Soledad Jorge Buddies Best O’Brien, Ambassador Journalist Buddies Best Founder and Chairman Anthony K. Shriver on the set of PBS’ American Graduate Dayprogram Graduate on ofPBS’ Shriver K. the American Anthony set Founder andChairman could have neverdone be- featured leading education, leadingeducation, featured ver’s original buddy andthe American GraduateDay.” nnect with students as

wait to see my favorite NFL team live in action!” son tickets finally come true,” said Morilla. “I can’t go for making my dreams of owning Dolphins sea- “I am so thankful to the generous couple from Chica- couple. peoplestriving do to the right thinginlife,” saidthe tickets for him. It always warms our hearts to see each other and knew that phins game, my husband and I instantly looked at hard to purchase season tickets to the Miami Dol- and heard him talking about how hewas working ate Day andas we were listening to Jorge's story “My husbandand I were watching American Gradu- up being the gift of a lifetime for Jorge. ately compelled to take Miami Dolphin’s seasontickets. They were immedi- show andheardJorge’s story anddream of having one couple in Chicago, Illinois, waswatching the During the American Graduate Day live broadcast, ives GiftofaLifetime action, one that would end we would purchasethose

8 FALL/WINTER| 16 corporate team, supportsthe er major sponsor, who was also the top fundraising Likewise, Natixis Global AssetManagement, anoth- supporterproud of theJobsprogram. for events across the coun beverage of Best Buddies, provides product support organization official inmany ways. the Pepsi-Cola, asreturned sponsors, and repeatedly the support sponsors, Santandesenting Port Hyannis Challenge: Buddies Best cost the of sending part with IDD through the Jobs program, and underwrite multiple friendship programs, employ individuals are matched with buddy participants through our face of their involvement with Best Buddies. Donors For many sponsors, financial support is only the sur- anddevelopme intellectual ment, and leadership development peoplewithfor one-to-oneintegrated ties for employ- friendships, a global volunteer movement that creates opportuni- committed to the organization’s mission: to establish Our success is rooted in a fraternity that is genuinely the fallseason. for instore much more and is so still there events, sors the organization has staged a host of exciting International, and with the support of amazing spon- It hasbeen aphenomenal year Bestfor Buddies Noelle Smikle, Director, Sponsor Relations, Best Buddies International Highlights Best BuddiesSponsor In June we staged the largest and most successful Buddies LeadershipConference Top sponsors and owners of Mack Cycle and Mack andowners Top sponsors Cycle of Losada, Fitness, Mark Mary Jane Mark, Rachel Losada, and Sandy Losada Losada Losada, Rachel and Sandy Mark, Mary Jane icipants to the annual try while Santanderis a ntal disabilities (IDD). (IDD). disabilities ntal r Bank and Pepsi-Cola, Best Buddies Chal- . to date. Pre- Best Challenge Winery, were also instrumental in the success of this Sponsor and Jobs program supporter, E. &J. Gallo Lieutenant Governorof California, GavinNewsom. property, Steve alsoco-cha to hosting the event at Castle Hearst Challenge: Buddies Best pants. team which included staffer membersto forma massive fundraising ride collaborated with the organization for the longtime and friend Dear Buddies MiamiGala Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Group Foundation, are also key supporters of the and Hublot Castle sponsors, Hearst GEO The pants. Castle Hearst lenge: Best Buddies International Board Member and longtime supporter and longtime Board supporter International Member Buddies Best Robert Friedman during the Mountain Bike Experience event during Friedman Mountain Robert Bike the Experience event by donatingproducts . their Best Buddies Jobspartici- their , and employs Jobs partici- his expansive 88,000acre supporter, Steve Hearst, ired the event alongside and rallying togeth- (Continued onpage 9) (Continued , and , and . In addition. In 13 th Best annual 9 FALL/WINTER| 16 Management; Presenting sponsors Tom Sullivan, of byMay andJim Liang Lintot Jim Ferraro, of FerraroThe Law Firm, were joined tous occasion. Co-Chairs Anthony K. Shriver and returningsponsors were board on for the momen- Best Buddies programs and mission. Many new and support onNovember 18 place to $2.5 million raised numberthe of school-based chapters to 2,500. for peoplewith around IDD 4,000 Buddy Ambassadors, offices inall50states by achieving theorganization’s 2020Initiative: opening ward tocontinued success, all with the ofgoal and loyalgenerous are sponsors. looking We for- velopment, are firmly builton asupport system of Our three pillars: friendship disabilities. opmental individuals, withandwithou nearly the lives impacting of 1 million consistently and is reach its expand to continues Buddies Best tion’s network of donors. donors are instrumental in board of directors, andal man and Jim Lintott all serve onthe organization’s of ways. Individuals like Tom Sullivan, Gerry Kling- our mission daily an supporters, these individuals andcorporations live In addition to beingmulti- Line; andSeminole Ha de elaborados de café, El Cafe; Carnival Cruise &Klingman Associates; Alvaro Noboa, of Compañía Lumber Liquidators; Penney &Gerry Klingman, of The Noelle Smikle, Director, Sponsor Relations, Best Buddies International Highlights Best BuddiesSponsor 20 th Annual BestBu d lendtheir support in avariety rd Casino. Rock ddies Miami Gala ddies MiamiGala the endof 2020, training ong with other the major year, and multi-regional expanding the organiza- , jobs and leadership de- t intellectualand devel- the world, andincreasing t of Sterling Foundation developing 1,000 jobs took Chobani’s pop-up at the pop-up 2016 at Chobani’s Members of of team HublotMembers duringthe 2016 (cont’d)

Hearst Castle Castle Hearst Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle Castle Hearst Challenge: Buddies Best Best Buddies Challenge: Challenge: Best Buddies 10 FALL/WINTER| 16

h trial period which began began which period trial h n, 12 individuals have have individuals n, 12 Rochesterchapter InstituteTechnology of Christine Mark and Chapter President Matthew Jackson from the the from Jackson Matthew President Chapter and Mark Christine Beauty, and Capital Properties. Properties. Capital and Beauty, the full-time and work 12 employees of the Seven higher slightly is employees for the salary average offices, in work participants Jobs Our than $14/hour. mailfacilities rooms, departments, mainte- park stores. wholesale and services, nance, visitor in New our programs to growing We forward look York! in 2015. Since its inceptio in 2015. Since through- jobs competitive in integrated, been placed Island. in Long one placement York with out New Con- Central Park include partners employer Our Association, Basketball National The servancy, Paramount & Knight, Holland Media, Greengale Best Buddies Jobs officially launched in New York in York in New in launched officially Jobs Best Buddies mont a 15 after 2016, May

partnerships with other other with partnerships ployees with people with people with with ployees in the next couple of of couple next the in (22 and older) with and with and older) (22 Citizens is a friendshipCitizens is a to-one friendships. Sam Rochester. Two new staff staff new Two Rochester. to be held in May 2017. The pair The pair 2017. in May held to be

Best Buddies participants from the Rochester, New York chapter York New Rochester, the from participants Buddies Best

The Albany office is increasing the services they of- they services the increasing office is Albany The August, In program! the Citizens and launching fer college of Manager Program Hershberger, Samuel the Best joined program, Citizens the and chapters Yorkfamily. Buddies New Since coming on in June, Lindsay has worked dili- worked has Lindsay in June, on Since coming school high seven middle school, one to open gently local other 11 are There chapters. college and two open to preparing chapters work- is started in September who months. Bonnie board and re- local advisory a establishing ing on first area's for the leadership volunteer cruiting WalkFriendship creating on working are also with begun working already and have local agencies Inc. People and Playhouse, Gigi's AutismUp, pairs adults which program without disabilitiesin one- will be establishing corporate Citizens chapters at em pair local businesses to tremendous disabilities. a to is going Citizens have friendships! incredible many and create impact

Best Buddies New York has experienced tremen- has experienced York New Best Buddies York to New Albany to Rochester from growth dous Thom- B. the from grant generous to a Thanks City! York Best New Buddies Foundation, as Golisano market York Western New the into has expanded in office and opened an Jewett, team—Lindsay the joined have members Direc- Webster, Area and Bonnie Manager Program tor.

Best Buddies New York: Tremendous Growth Tremendous York: New Buddies Best YorkNew Buddies Best Director, Area Burch, Nicole 11 FALL/WINTER| 16 tion’s mission of BuddiesBest programs and furtherorganiza- the success which over raised $4.5 support to million Castle Presented by Pepsi-Cola complishments. Hearst spoke about his involvement award ceremony that celebrated all of the day’s ac- Chair Steve Hearst’s ranc event onSan Simeon. The continued Honorary Co- Carmel to Highway Coast Pacific from majestic the down & ride 100-mile Resort Club Lodge Golf the for Hundreds of cyclists took to the starting line at Quail pacted with involvement. their minded them of the countl for their contributions to man, Anthony K. Shriver thanked all the participants Cola dies Challenge: Hearst Ca with the official opening ceremonies of the acre network of off-road trails. The day cappedoff the opportunity to ride a private course on the 180 in Carmel on Friday, September 9. Participants had Bike Experience The event kicked-off with the Maria Shriver served as Honorary Chair Emeritus. Co-Chairs of the event and Journalist andAuthor tenant Governor Gavin Newsom served asHonorary Buddies supporter Steve Hearst and California Lieu- employment, and leadership development. Best The Madari Pendas, Coordinator, Communications, Best Buddies International Hearst CastleChallenge Lieutenant Governor of California andHonorary California Governorof Gavin Newsom, Lieutenant Chair Emeritus Maria Shriver with Best Buddies Ambassadors with Maria Ambassadors Shriver Buddies Best Chair Emeritus 13 . Best Buddies International Founder and Chair- Founder International Buddies Best . th Annual BestBuddie one-to-one friendsh one-to-one at Quail LodgeResort & ClubGolf the organization and re- h with abarbeque and ess lives they have im- stle Presented byPepsi- s Challenge: Hearst Hearst s Challenge: BestBuddiesMountain was a tremendous ips, integrated integrated ips, Best Bud- Raises $4.5 Million Raises $4.5 Million a-Buddy program. breaking $91,000 in total donations for the Sponsor- and involvement. The nigh organization, and effortsrecognized participants’ the ny for allowing her to be a part of such a wonderful stage and returned the kind words, thanking Antho- said, “thank you allfor that you do.” Maria took the dies. “You are the best part of this event,” he warmly aged andcontinually supported him and Best Bud- has made in hislife, and the way shehasencour- Mariainfluenceabout spoke Shriver thesignificant support of the Best Buddies mission. Anthony K. charitable contributions, as beautiful destinations of themostone pants tocelebrate in friendship some of Best Buddies top supporters and partici- trious Hearst Castle. This event brought together wrappedevening upwith at aVIP illus- reception the which had the crowd dancing late into the night. The performance byergetic the legendary BeachBoys, en- an with concluded barbecue Ranch Hearst The Spirit of Leadership Award and Honorary Chair Emeritus Later on, Anthony K. Shriver presented his sister IDD. friendship and social inclusion individualsfor with to organization’s ofment mission furthering the with Best Buddies over the years and his commit- Cyclists taking off from the 100-mile start line during the Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle Hearst Challenge: Buddies Best in the country. t also saw arecord- well as herfor enduring for her philanthropic and Maria Shriverwith the

13th Annual

12 FALL/WINTER| 16 at the Buddies mission ontheir campus. Since 2002, the it was awardedthe year, PurdueUniversity earnedanother accolade when nized nationally academics for and sports. But this been apillar of excellence inthecommunity, recog- Purdue University in Lafayette, IndianaWest has long Katie Brydon, Director, Programs, Best Buddies International Spotlight: PurdueUniversity Best BuddiesCollege brate asthey their off kick 15 Buddy Pair of the Year. the Year Award, Leadership Team theYear of ored locally with the dent Organizations. Additionally, thechapterwas hon- cellence Award year, thechapterwas recognized with the Overall Outstanding Chapter due doesn’t have justthe Best Buddies International volunteers, participants, sponsors, andstaff. But Pur- the international conference in thousands of front of from thousands of eligible chapters and celebrated at ence Outstanding Chapter of the Year The Best winning chapter Buddies University Overall Purdue the this past July. Purdue University was selected 27 th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Confer- from PurdueUniversity’s ofStu- Office Overall Outstanding Chapter Best Buddies Indiana Chapter of Indiana ChapterBest Buddiesof Purdue has quite alottocele- award at award th award toboast; thispast year sharing the Best Leadership Conference Leadership Conference Year Ex- of , and prize people and with without disabilities! creating amorerespectful, inclusive, and worldfun for ment tothemission and ever-improving excellence in grateful continued forthisBuddies is team’s commit- shared and recognized across Purdue’s campus. Best friendship, leadership development, and inclusion is this year they have working 19officers toensure They’ve also enhanced their leadership opportunities, momentum tocontinue our success into thenext year.” proud of what hasbeen accomplished. will use this We “This pastyear hasbeen amazing and we arevery year’s Chapter President, Ashley shares, Worthem chapter’s legacy continues topromoteinclusion. Last engaging members inthe mission and ensuring the Each oneof their 15leaders hasavery role specific in the mission on campus. their committed and meticulous inplanning ways tofurther Indiana.the stateof Theleadership the chapter of is expand opportunities inclusion for and leadership in and their Friendship raisedteam Walk over $5,000to have broughtin thousands dollars of forchapterevents viewing parties, and sporting events. Their fundraisers certifiedes from instructors, karaoke outings, Oscar ships. Monthly activities range from learning newdanc- share in games, events, andcelebrate their friend- host monthlyleadersverse membersgatherings for to 50 buddy and pairs 15officers. Together, thesedi- In 2016,thechapter included over 150 members with nized andvaluable organizations onPurdue’s campus. chapter has grown tobeone the of most well recog- 13 FALL/WINTER| 16 group home. Joseph has has Joseph group home. customers, or even pass- even or customers, Joseph and Zach posing for a photo before enjoying a meal together before a photo enjoying a posing for Joseph Zach and lived in this new group home for the last six months, months, six last the for group home in this new lived and much more confident and he so become has that me with he called yesterday Just independent. process in the is now he that me to tell voice cheery in life! for the first time his of finding job paying a chat- Joseph find I can eat to go out we when Now, other waiters, the up ting at event upcoming an for street the in flyers out ing I that The person Best Buddies. with or church his a and a year met I person same the not is today see contagious. truly is aura and his half ago, Eventually, Joseph networked with Best Buddies Buddies Best with networked Joseph Eventually, a small- in residence a new find helped him that staff independent more er and residents, rather than than rather residents, tic and sociable individ- and sociable tic , he decided that it was was it that he decided , "YES!" But once we got But once we "YES!" fter asking Joseph once Joseph once asking fter that could help him. help him. could that smile and upbeat attitude. attitude. and upbeat smile would often times provide provide times often would Not only did Joseph take take Joseph did Not only some questionable some questionable condi- Kissel enjoying a footballtogetherKissel game enjoying a

BestBuddies Citizens participants Gruenhagen and Joseph Zach After brain storming with me home, in the group Joseph felt uncomfortable very he that and he described fellow his to help and support there. staff paid the of any from support get on. move to him for time the initiative toofthismove out living dismal situa- with connections new make to started he but tion, friends my and colleagues smiling and his answer to any question I asked was I was question asked to any smiling his answer and "YES!" an enthusiastic always he as true, is impression first that of half only Today, charisma truly a has become great a maintains ual that re- always would he there living if liked he twice or thatspond with enthusiastic out. came truth the one another with comfortable very shy and cautious person who never stopped stopped never who person cautious and shy very I have grown so much over the past year and a half half and a year the past over much so grown I have first intro- was When I Buddy. Joseph's of being a met I program Citizens in the Joseph duced to I being and Joseph of months four first the After to notice started I paired A group home. his tions at

Buddy Pair Spotlight: Joseph and Zach and Joseph Spotlight: Pair Buddy participant chapter Citizens Florida Miami, Buddies Best Zach Gruenhagen, 14 FALL/WINTER| 16 Subodh was offered the samejob that day! interview and tour of the facility from the supervisor, car electronics. After reviewing his resume, abrief specializing in wireless backup camera systems and lished in2003dedicated to Uponreturning from the sions, he was noticeably proud. ticipating inthe interviewing and resume writing ses- listener during this Best Buddies International’s 3 Subodh was avaluable cont chances of securing competitive employment, and set increase his improve his skill Motivated to paycheck. ronment but wanted the knew what itwas like to work ina professional envi- unteer at the local Veterans Affairs hospital, Subodh home inLos Angeles, California. Having been a vol- mate goal of landing a full-time position close to his ulti- with and the skills interviewing building resume Buddies Jobsprogram employment consultant on makes perfect.” Subodh began working with hisBest Subodh Garg truly appreciates the cliché “practice ship Conference Annual Jobs breakoutTrack sessions at the ( had learnedwhen heinterviewedwith TadiBrothers Subodh had the opportunity toput to use what he Kathy DiRusso, DeputyKathy DiRusso, Director, Jobs Best BuddiesJobsPartic tadibrothers.com Best Buddies Jobs participant Subodh Garg Garg participant Jobs Subodh Buddies Best in Bloomington, Indiana. After par- ), a family-owned business estab- business a), family-owned opportunity to earn a Leadership Conference selling top-quality items, items, top-quality selling ributor and anattentive Program, Best Buddies International Leader- , rd

ipant: Subodh Garg ipant: SubodhGarg and attention to detail, along sup- detail, wonderful to withand attention the and restock merchandise. Subodh’s great work ethic their ticketing and online system, package items, Subodh learnedhow purchase orders to usingfulfill A few weeks into his job as ashipping assistant, bus ride from hi sional, andla Subodh worked hard, presented himself as a profes- workplace! by example and fostering adiverse and inclusive leading for you TadiBrothers satisfaction. Thank of The smile on his face speaks volumes for his level perfect match. port of his coworkers, has made this placement the Subodh packing deliveries at TadiBrothers at deliveries TadiBrothers packing Subodh nded a job that iswithin a15-minute s apartment. 15 FALL/WINTER| 16 The Fan Radio, The Spruce Kyrie Irving Basketball Challenge Challenge Basketball Irving Kyrie Playersthe during A moving halftime dance performance portraying a fami- lovely’s for son followed their was by drumming, dancing and cheering. At halftime, Irving and Shriver switched teams—giving all the players an opportunity to be coached by both celebrities. In the final seconds of the game, Special Olympian Leonard Thompson sunk an unbelievable three-point shot to secure the forwin Irving’s team.To the crowd say went wild is a huge understate- ment! After the game, DJ Iron Mike and Marlana VanHoose in- vited toguests join the dance party that concluded the day. The Cavs’ mascot, staff, students, volunteers and attendees from over Ohio all participated in corn holing, hula hooping, face painting and enjoyed the beautiful af- ternoon. Generous donors and sponsors included the Cleveland Cavaliers, Pepsi, Nike, 92.3 Agency, Fahlgren Mortine, FILO, Cleveland.com, Biofreeze, Pizzafire, the Butler County Board of Develop- mental Disabilities and Miami University Best Buddies. Best Buddies Ohio is grateful to all who participated, in- cluding the spectacular planning team created who such an incredibly memorable, mission-centered event. in Shriver teams. Made up of

Best Buddies Interna- in Cleveland, Ohio Cleveland, Ohio in th Crump, the Voice of the d Kyrie d Kyrie the Irving leading Best Buddies Friendship Walk Friendship Best Buddies Kyrie Irving Basketball Challenge.

to the Best Buddies Walk Best Buddies Friendship Cleveland Cavaliers Point Guar Point Cavaliers Cleveland

and

BBFW and Kyrie Irving Basketball Challenge Basketball Kyrie Irving and BBFW Ohio Best Buddies Director, State Callison, Janet tional Foundertional and Chairman Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies Ohio Advisory Board Chair Beth Savage,and Grandview Heights High School Best Buddies chapter members Callison Silas and Kyler Baker welcomed an crowdexcited to the first Ohio At the conclusion of the walk, referee celebrity Jim Chones and celebrity Coaches Shriver and Irving met at center court as Emcee Ahmaad praised attendees for helping to establish Best Buddies in Ohio and challenged them help make to the event even bigger next year. To the delight of the crowd, Shriver introduced Kyrie Ir- ving and thanked him for his longtime support of Best Buddies and for his participation as honorary chair of this inauguralOhio event. Irving,along with Marlana VanHoose and Cavaliers talent—Q-Stix drummers, ScreamTeam and the Cavaliers Girls—rallied all in at- tendance as he kicked off one-mile the walk for inclusion through the Gateway District of Downtown Cleveland. Cleveland Cavaliers, introduced the Ohio and buddy of Best Buddies sponsors, friends event pairs from chapters around the state, the teams were cheered on by a friendly and supportive crowd, thewith assistance from DJ Iron Mike. On the morning of September 24 16 FALL/WINTER| 16 tual andtual developmental disabilities, ACCES-VR intro- employment opportunities individuals for with intellec- Best Buddies Jobs program’s ability competitive tofind assistance. Realizing the VR, astate-funded vocational Not knowing where toturn, Jovan appliedtoACCES- siblings. He never hada full-t bers runtheir small businesses and taking care his of ade balancing his between time helping family mem- in theworkforce. At28years hood of Manhattan has always his place wanted tofind Jovan Galindo the of Washington Heights neighbor- Ariel Adler, Employment Consultant, Best Buddies New York Best BuddiesJobsSpotlight:JovanGalindo Jovan taking inventory ofthe items inventory taking t Jovan Best Best Buddies Jobs participant GalindoJovan diligently working at his kitchen desk desk great potential in Jovan and hat needhat replenishing in office the ime jobime tocallhis own. old, hespent thelast dec- rehabilitation center, for dreams aswell. and pursue employment opportunities aligned with his brother toreachout totheBestBuddies Jobs program Properties, Jovan’s success hasinspired his twin said Jovan. weeks Justafew after starting atCapital want people with disabilities toknowthereishelp,” want about tospeak allthe amazing work they do.I Knowing how much Best Buddies hasdone for I me, derstand. Ifeel complete now knowthattherearepeople who docare and un- “After meeting Best Buddies, my has life changed and I view, butnotanymore!” hideitfrom I would others. was always It scary tointer- one would understand who Because Ireally am. of that Jovan explains, “Because of my disability, Ithought no Jovan was ecstatic andhumbl $15 perhour and working 20hours per week. Capital Properties extended anoffer toJovan, earning terview, BestBuddies received thefantastic news— organizing theconference rooms. Shortly thein- after stocked,deliveringthe fridgeing keeping and mail, mitted officeassistant tomain tate management agencies, was insearch acom- of York City’s largest commercial andresidential real es- at Capital Properties. Capital Properties, one of New agreed thatheshould interview anexisting for position van andlearned about his skill set,itwas unanimously the When Best Buddies New Jobs York team Jo- met York. totheBestduced Buddies him Jobs program in New Jovan outside of the offices of Capital Properties Capital of Properties ofthe offices outside Jovan knowing I am notknowing alone. Iam tain the facilitates includ-tain the facilitates ed toreceive theoffer. 17 FALL/WINTER| 16 rators and parents have have and parents rators ’ lives have been amaz- have ’ lives inate social barriers for for barriers social inate friendships and leadership leadership friendships and BestBuddies and Gracie Grace en M. Jydsrup Elementary School. Elementary Jydsrup M. en development that have arisen from our new pro- new our from arisen have that development grams. experi- rewarding most the of is one Buddies "Best Thank teacher. in as a been involved ences I have graders. second for my possible this making for you forever are lives our and minute every Weloved General Grade Second Meyer, Cece said changed," School Elementary Cahlan Teacher at Education and education general the in changes positive "The education students special said students," all for wonderful is program This ing! TeresaTeacher Hampton, EducationSpecial Hel- at reached out to Best Buddies Nevada to tell powerful powerful tell to Nevada Buddies to Best out reached beautiful the of stories and valuing others. We believe that by doing this doing this that by Webelieve others. and valuing elim can enoughearly we life a has developed who Cooper, Gracie people like -enricheningfriendship Grace with Caso.” administ advisors, Students, IN THE THE IN around 25 buddies,” said said buddies,” 25 around participants Cooper and Gracie attitude of inclusion. inclusion. of attitude entary students becoming becoming students entary quotient (FQ) was was (FQ) quotient Grace Caso

The goal for this program was simple: nur- simple: was program this for goal The

BestBuddies Elementary program Best Buddies Nevada Nevada Buddies Best Elementary Program Nevada Best Buddies State Director, Mattox, Geena HOUSE! ture and foster an attitude of acceptance, inclusion inclusion acceptance, of attitude an foster and ture effort this of center the at to be desire strong Their wonderful was “It exciting. more the all things made up sign students school elementary 100 over to see friendshipto in with partner for Buddies Best Cooper, Supervisor Kelly Program friendship “TheNevada. opened Nevada Buddies Best 2015, of fall the In which chapters Promoter school elementary nine elem 400 over resulted in movement. inclusion in the social involved actively young these way the to observe exciting very was It an adopted people quickly 18 FALL/WINTER| 16 sible employerpartnership. Vanessa quickly re- ha’s store inCoral Gables, Florida, regarding a pos- sage to Vanessa Cuba, Manager at the main Mis- Gonzalez a Consultant Tessie ployment sent mes- As part of Best Buddies Jobs service delivery, Em- Broward County. she has six store locati home, when her first child Ella wasand born, today and custom event orders. Misha started baking at in andbite size full izing cakes isa gourmet bakery inSouthFlorida special- ha’s Cupcakes, went all “In to Hire.” Misha’s Cup- Gomez, successful entrep When it comes to diversifying the workplace, Misha Tessie Gonzalez, Employment Consultant, Best Buddies Florida Best BuddiesJobsSpotlight:Misha’s Cupcakes Best Buddies Jobs participant Ta participant Jobs Buddies Best with a smile at Misha’s Cupcakes atwith Misha’s asmile Cupcakes ons inMiami-Dade and cupcakes, aswell ascakes nia Taranobeginningherwork day reneur andowner of Mis- Shortly thereafter, Best Buddies Jobspresented Vanessa to discuss the next steps to employment. Buddies Jobswas atthe table with Misha and dies Jobsprogram and in less than two weeks, Best regarding hiring participa and loved the mission. Va sponded as she already kn In addition, Misha andVa stores! ticipants in the Pembroke Pines andAventura ready indicated interest in hiring two more Jobs par- pleased with hernew employees thatshe has al- Kendall, andMiami Lakes employs Jobsparticipants intheir Coral Gables, turned into three job offers! Now Misha’s Cupcakes one job opening for aBest Buddies Jobs participant Alan,andTania, Rose. What originally as began three qualified candidates to Misha’s Cupcakes— employers. sage of inclusion to other customers and potential nership withBuddies Best to helpspread the mes- week, all staff wear a shirt displaying Misha’s part- “Best Buddies Day” at all Misha’s One stores. day a Best Buddies Jobs participant Alan Emanuel decorating cupcakes decorating cupcakes participant Emanuel Alan Jobs Buddies Best nts through the Best Bud- nessa have declared a nessa approached Misha locations. Misha is so ew about Best Buddies 19 FALL/WINTER| 16 ar anniversary with their their with anniversary ar have improved in their in their improved have ie Poole, Addison Burnitz, and Robby des GrosseilliersAddison Burnitz,Poole, and Robby des ie minutes so it is much more manageable for us to us for manageable more much is so it minutes period.” in one class complete are e-Buddies, students in participation Through developing important while friendships able to create skills. Recently, severalof Donell’s Ms. students ye their one celebrated have have students “my expresses, Donell Ms. e-Buddy. with bonds strong formed and friendships gained their e-Buddies.” world, changing ever an “In shares, also Donell Ms. with current to stay them e-Buddies has allowed students My technology. flu- e-Buddies are they writing and skills because of is a which an e-mail, to write way correct the ent in lifeskill.They skills can the use learned they have their skills e-Buddies and transfer those to through to continue and accounts, e-mail school home and of and outside inside friendships both maintain school.” Ms. Donell enjoys her classroom’s involvement in e- in involvement classroom’s her enjoys Donell Ms. this recommend highly would “I and states, Buddies re- to forward look always students My program! the and I see e-Buddies fromtheir e-mails ceiving love students My respond. to them in motivation that receive people and to with lives sharing their It's never them. for is exciting back same response teacher a and as participate to them get to a battle rewarding!” is that ies, Programs, Best Buddies International International Buddies Best ies, Programs, responding to their buddies to responding e-Buddiesstudents participants Georgia Morrissiey, and Natal e-Buddies eagerly writing and e-Buddies writing eagerly

first we “When e-Buddies, Donell shares, began Ms. the to logging on even time a hard had students my computerconsistently. they loggo Now on, straight to respond website, and the read to e-Buddies and to hour to an us up take to used It e-mails. their to 30 are down we now process, this complete Julie Donell, a teacher at Avon Grove High School in School High Grove Avon at Donell, a teacher Julie in e-Buddies has used Pennsylvania, Grove, West 2011. October since classroom her

e-Buddies in Action: Avon Grove High School Grove High School Avon Action: in e-Buddies e-Budd Manager, Wolford, Projects Special Liz 20 FALL/WINTER| 16 Annu- th 26 , where select , where apters across the country country apters across the l of the photos taken during

the Best Buddies community through app the community Best Buddies the in Bloomington, Indiana this July. Attendees were Best Buddies participants sharing their friendship with with their friendship sharing participants Best Buddies al Best Buddies Leadership Best Buddies al Conference groups of conference attendees were invited to discuss what features they wanted from Buddies a Best mobile app. These focus groups were conducted by Polidea, an experienced mobile app development firmWar- based in saw, Poland, that helped design and build Best Buddies Mobile. The feedback gathered critical was for developing the app, and Best Buddies will continue to seekmember input on future releases as the app continues to mature. Best Buddies Mobile is available for download in the Apple App Storenow! https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/best-buddies-mobile/ id1101793197?mt=8 ference invited to snap photos of their conference experience and connect with members from ch using the app. Additionally, al the conference were entered into a photo contest. The winner, Marisa Greenlaw from Brook Clear High School in of Friendship” “Arrows and a free Alex Ani Texas won bracelet. Planning for the app began a earlieryear at the smartphone app: Best Bud- Annual Best Buddies LeadershipCon- th 27 and share new friendship matches and milestones milestones and matches friendship new and share

Best Buddies participants using the new Best Buddies mobile app app mobile Best Buddies new the using participants Best Buddies

The new Best Buddies mobile app allows participants to document document to participants allows app mobile Best Buddies The new

Introducing Best Buddies Mobile Best Buddies Introducing International Buddies Best Programs, Online Director, Bill Maurer, It’s official,It’s Best Buddies has gone mobile! Buddies Best official its first launched has dies Mobile.dies This app offers new and exciting toways engage with the Best Buddies community. Best Buddies Mobile features a dynamic feed of exciting and inspirational photos submitted by Best Buddies mem- bers from Members across the country. use the can also app to follow chapter announcements, receive notifica- tions for upcoming events, and submitmonthly friendship updates. Members use the who app will gain access to exclusive prizes and promotions from Best Buddies and its partners throughout the year. to at- first exclusively offered Mobile was Best Buddies tendees of the 21 FALL/WINTER| 16 They have provided init the ment. th (IDD) disabilities mental individuals supporting with need believes inthe Foundation Phillips for Dr. The and have asignificant lastingimpact. tral Florida that address are wellorganizations that throughout known Cen- the world andsince has left in producer citrus largest the was once Phillips Dr. Phillips Foundationin excited toannounce a partnership with Dr. the P. The Best Buddies Florida Jobsprogram isextremely Director,Ombres, CaryBuddies Jobs, Best Florida Dr. PhillipsFoundation&BestBuddiesPartnership Best Buddies Florida Jobs participants during Florida participants agroupouting Buddies Best Jobs Central Florida. critical community needs rough integrated employ- intellectual and develop- ial funding to launch ial the funding alegacy of supporting gram inFlorida! IDD employed through the Best Buddies Jobs pro- lando wewill beonour and Miami andwith launchof the the program in Or- Best Buddies has placed 85participants in Broward Orlando). have the Jobs program (Broward, Miami and now throughout Florida and now Best Buddies Florida currently hassix offices est them. The groupalsohad ticipants learn new ways tosearch for jobs that inter- media platforms, including LinkedIn, to helpour par- their Orlando office. Inktel’s staff reviewed social ofgroup potential Best Buddies Jobsparticipants to In fact, a South Florida partner, Inktel welcomed a as arduous. be will in Florida a not Central new program forging with employers throughout the state, the task of Because of the great partnerships Best Buddies has ty. tween 10to 12individual Jobs program inCentral Florida whichwill place be- way to100individualswith s throughout the communi- half of half these locations a tour of their office. 22 FALL/WINTER| 16 Buddy pair celebrating Best Buddies Month Best Buddies Friendship Walk: South Florida Florida South Walk: Friendship Buddies Best Take the pledge and end the hurtful use of the of hurtful R-word use end the the Take pledge and

cam- (Continued23) on page l Events, Best Buddies International Buddies Best l Events, to show the world the sig- the the world to show

heir passion for Best Bud- for Best heir passion mmunity carnivals, regional regional carnivals, mmunity

Spread the WordWord to End the

Scott Tracy, Vice President, Specia President, Vice Scott Tracy, The Friendship Walk is the latest and greatest life- greatest latest and Walkis the The Friendship Since Best Buddies. by created movement changing in walked have participants 55,000 more than 2009, than more raising countries, 26 states and three over can you is where This Buddies. for Best $5 million inclu- community promote can You a difference! make Friendship in this year’s participating by sion simply WalkWalkWalk. for Walk for for inclusion. friendship. community! a better South Florida Museum Park, Miami Florida Walk: Best Buddies Friendship Florida South 2017 11, March Worldwide A global day of awareness for Best Buddies’ and Special the Olympics’, Spread the Wordto End the Word Spread the 2017 March paign. The campaign is designed to raise the conscious- ness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful ef- people encourage and (“retard(ed)”) fects R-word of the to stop using it. What started 24 years ago as a one-day event has event as a one-day ago years 24 started What commemorating celebration month-long into a evolved which Month, Buddies Best mission. Best Buddies’ for Bud- Best is a time March, in year takes place each friend- of to reflect on the importance dies participants leaders. future of the development and ship, jobs, is a time it importantly, More In life. individual’s every in essentials of these nificance individual and chapters Best Buddies’ March 2017, t showcase will volunteers in co participating dies by assemblies. and school-wide dances, Worldwide Best Buddies Month Month Best Buddies 2017 March

National Events Events National 23 FALL/WINTER| 16 Best Buddies Best Leadership Conference challenge: Hearst Castle Tom Brady with a few of his best of Brady buddies his a few with Tom Participants during thethefrom annual world around

Cyclists departing from the 100-mile start line during the Best Buddies

is a 100, is a 100, chaired by chaired by and con- and

l Events, Best Buddies International Buddies Best l Events, sabilities from Best Bud- Best from sabilities ead successful Best Buddies Buddies Best ead successful

Tom Brady Football Challenge Challenge Football Brady Tom

Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle Castle Hearst Challenge: Buddies Best Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, Port, Hyannis Challenge: Buddies Best

Scott Tracy, Vice President, Specia President, Vice Scott Tracy, The Carmel & San Simeon, California Castle Hearst Best Buddies Challenge: 2017 9, September Pacific along the adventure cycling 62, 30, or 15-mile Hearst to the renowned from Carmel Highway, Coast led 5K run/walk an optional with Simeon, San in Castle a with concludes event The Lewis. Carl Olympian by Ranch. at Hearst concert private and barbeque festive

July 21-24, 2017 2017 21-24, July 2,300 more than welcomes conference annual This intel- without and with leaders community student and di developmental and lectual staff profes- than 200 more and programs, eight dies’ conference to a four-day world the from around sionals to l that prepares students year. in the upcoming chapters Indiana Bloomington, Best Buddies Leadership Conference Best Buddies Leadership The Boston & Hyannis Port, Massachusetts Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Port Hyannis Challenge: Best Buddies June 3, 2017 National Events Events National

cludes with celebrity tandem races, a celebratory clam- a celebratory tandem races, celebrity with cludes guest. musical a special by concert a private bake and Tom Brady, is a 100, 50, or 20-mile cycling adventure adventure is a 100, 50, or 20-mile cycling Tom Brady, run/ 5K an optional with Port, to Hyannis from Boston kicks- The event Lewis. Carl Olympian by walk chaired off with the 24 FALL/WINTER| 16

Best Buddies North Carolina Gala Carolina North Buddies Best Best Buddies Dallas Gala Dallas Buddies Best Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Region Capital Best Buddies Friendship the annual Guests celebrating the inaugural

Jan Rich and Best AmbassadorJanBuddies at Global Charles Rich and Calhoun

Participants during the Participants during

is the newest the newest is l Events, Best Buddies International Buddies Best l Events,

ages and athletic abilities,

is an incredible event, featuring a featuring event, incredible is an

Best Buddies FriendshipWalk: Capital Region

Dallas Gala Gala Dallas Best Buddies North Carolina Gala Gala Carolina North Best Buddies Annual Best Buddies Dallas Gala Gala Dallas Annual Best Buddies

th Scott Tracy, Vice President, Specia President, Vice Scott Tracy,

November 4, 2017 4, November The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, Texas The a private and auctions, and silent live dinner, gourmet as Honorary serving Rich Jeff Jan and with concert, in Tex- endeavors Buddies Best support to help Chairs as. 11 the CapitalWalk Region has the energy of a big family gathering as more than 2,000 Best Buddies program par- ticipants, with and without IDD walk side-by-side to pro- mote friendship and community inclusion. is a powerful movement social that supports inclusion and acceptance for people with intellectual and developmental (IDD). Open todisabilities all National Mall, Washington,National Mall, D.C. The 2017 Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Capital Region Walk: Friendship Best Buddies Best Buddies event, featuring sumptuous cocktails, a cocktails, sumptuous featuring event, Best Buddies The gala auctions. and silent and live dinner, gourmet who Siskey, Rick & Diane of home takes place at the Sumi- & Marty Cindy with co-chairs honorary as serve programs Best Buddies to launch to raise funds chrast, Carolina. in North The Fall 2017 Charlotte, Carolina North Carolina Gala North Best Buddies National Events Events National October 14, 2017 14, October

25 FALL/WINTER| 16 with Steven Maglio. tails, dinner, exclusive au exclusive Club Colette. The evening will include cock- Buddies Palm Beach Gala the co-chair will Quick Thomas Member Board Mary andMark Freitas and BestBuddies International The longtime supporters Michele and Howard Kessler, Florida Beach, Palm 2017 Winter Best BuddiesPalm Beach Gala The Florida Miami, November 17, 2017 21 followed by the with lunch inthe owner’s suite atMarlins Park and is cles, and two fully-stocked reststops.Theride ends ton with roadand intersection closures, support vehi- features a cycling event limited tojust 50riders. This 62-mile ride The Florida Miami, November 17, 2017 Best BuddiesChallenge: Miami National Events entertainment. dazzling and -notch auction, top a dinner, a gourmet whileenjoying Buddies Best brate Guests will cele- performers. incredible and superstars, athletic celebrities, notable including event, this elegant attend guests international and local prominent 850 than year, more Each world. the around disabilities mental develop- and intellectual with people supporting lar event Scott Tracy, Vice President, Specia st 21 Annual BestBuddies Miami Gala Best Buddies Challenge: Miami is st Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala Miami Gala Buddies Best Annual Tour deFrance

Miami Gala Miami

ction, andaprivate concert -style escorted police pelo- , hostedattheopulent and that evening. l Events, Best Buddies International a world-class is a spectacu- is a

Best

Best Buddies Global Ambassadors Romero Britto and Aoki Romero Steve Britto Global Buddies Ambassadors Best Riders cycling through the streets Miami duringthe of the streets cycling through Riders Guests during the Guests GalaPalm Beach Best Buddies Challenge: Miami Miami Challenge: Buddies Best during the during the Miami Gala Gala Miami 26 FALL/WINTER| 16 attendees. est acclaim and the most money from the Direct bangles and rings brought some of the high- Keith UrbanConcert Experience andDiamonds floor seats to see the Charlotte Hornets play, a andResorts Villa, ireland toa Wedding trip a kathy notch live andsilent auctio sumptuous cocktails, a gourmet dinner and top- The evening was aspectacular event that featured ny K.Shriver hosted Fo Buddies International Siskey, Cindy andMarty Sumichrast and Best On Saturday, October 1, 2016, Diane and Rick Relations, International Manager, Buddies Best Sponsor Nuell, Robert Best BuddiesNorthCarolina monds Direct and kathy ireland Worldwide. Dia- Management, Barings Capital ACN, Corp., Group, Mercedes-Benz of included titlespons ble company leaders and sponsors inattendance and Rick Siskey inCharlo prominent guests gathered at the home of Diane ral Marty and Cindy Sumichrast, Best Buddies International Founderand International Best Buddies andCindySumichrast, Marty Best Buddies North Carolina Gala Chairman Anthony K. Shriver, and Rick and Diane Siskey and andRick DianeSiskey Shriver, K. Anthony Chairman or Siskey Capital, Level Beauty Le Cirque deNuit Le Cirque under &Chairman Antho- tte, North Carolina. Nota- ns. Auction donations of South Charlotte, KURE ! Nearly 300 , the inaugu-, the Gala’s

across the Tar Heel State! dle High School, School chapters and College all Carolina by an opening offi North Buddies expandto Best into officially allowed cantly, the and raisedawareness of our programs. Most signifi- introduced the Best Buddie The opulent gathering, held Atlanta-based bandSurround Sound. walkers, fire performers and a musical closing by the bassador Katie Meade, water sphere dancers, stilt Level Beauty Brandand Be speeches from groups, awareness disability local Le Cirquede Nuit Guests celebrating at the Best Buddies North Carolina GalaNorth BuddiesCarolina Best the at celebratingGuests Cirque deNuit Gala raised over $330,000, which has offered guests entertainment from ce, and will establish Mid- s mission ato new region st Buddies Global Am- in anornate circus tent,

27 FALL/WINTER| 16

mission worldwide worldwide mission BestBuddiesparticipants Uganda are excitedcarry to on our willgala ex- be hosting 2017 with on January a pected attendees politicians include local to and the mayor Sofia. of In addition Bulgaria, to Buddies Best also wel- we Friendshipcomeprogram a new in Uganda. Best Buddies Uganda officially launched in the of city EntebbeAugust in in partnership 2016 Em- with braceKulture, mission is to nonprofit a local whose create a world allcreate world where individualsa with autism and theirfamilies are and treated accepted equal- Bestly. Buddies Ugandagreat is off a to start! They have already over involved 50 individuals in heldmiddle have schools and high schools and teamvarious trainings group activities. and Best Buddies Philippines partic- Jobs and Citizens ipant,art the of doors Vico Cham, his opened has gallery and studio, Vico’s Artism,freeto host art for pairs.therapy sessions Instead buddy host- of grouping outing, one big Best Buddies Philippines has decided to host- approach a different take by ing smallergroup pairs activities, three per buddy hourssession. session is two Each art therapy longguided other Vico along two and is by with instructors. to his passion Vico is excited share with great his peers,takes pride in showcas- and ing his talent to help others!

picture during their Facebook Live eventFacebook Live picture their during

BestBuddies a quick proudly poses team Costa for Rica’s inaugural

Best Buddies International Programs Growth Growth Programs International Buddies Best International Buddies Best Programs, International Coordinator, Gutierrez, M. Yelba ticipantsfrom their other countries shared experi- wishes.ences, Best and well advice, Buddies Costa Rica also took to those time the welcome tuned in notwho involved were yet withwho Best Buddies,feed and used their a platform as to edu- cate different them the about programs and how could join.they Best Buddies Europe would like to Best welcome Buddies Bulgaria!Buddies Bulgaria Best will be announcing program its Friendship launch in So- fia, Bulgaria’s capital, NovemberThey 3, on 2016. Ecuador was launched in June 2016 and hosted Ecuador was theirfirst interestmeeting October Best on 14. Buddies Costa Rica launched in Octoberand 2016 pagekickedthings hosting Live Facebook by a off launch on Saturday, October 8, 2016. Chapters thattuned feed in during their live included: Best Buddies Best Buddies Philippines,Mexico, Best Buddies Chile, Dominican Best Republic Buddies and Best some Buddies Panama additional with chapters sending in pre-recorded videos welcome theirto show support! ThroughoutBestpar- the Buddies staff event, and Our Americaregion is proud announce Latin to Friendship new programs,two Best Buddies Ecua- dor and Best Buddies Costa Rica! Best Buddies 28 FALL/WINTER| 16 Best Buddies International would like to thank the following corporate sponsors: Best Buddies liketothankInternational corporate thefollowing would sponsors: Seminole HardRock Hotel &Casino BlueCross BlueShield Massachu- of Natixis Global Asset Management, Royal Caribbean Cruises Interna- Kobi KarpArchitecture & Interior Compania DeElaborados De Crescent CapitalCrescent Group L.P. Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. Coastal Construction Group Construction Group Coastal National University System Eaton Vance Management The Bay ClubCompany TracFone Wireless, Inc. TracFone Wireless, Plumtree Partners, LLC The Leavitt Corporation Evolution LLC Logistics $250,000 — $499,000$250,000 — $100,000 – $249,000 $100,000 – Pepsi-Cola Company Company Pepsi-Cola Wal-Mart Stores, Inc Alex andAni, Retail Silicon Valley Bank Bank Valley Silicon $50,000 – $99,000 $50,000 – $25,000 – $49,999 $25,000 – Servco Pacific Inc. Park West Gallery Park West Parthenon GroupParthenon Banco DoBrasil Santander Bank Chobani, LLC Chobani, Kahala Corp Kahala Corp BNY Mellon BNY Mellon BTIG, LLC BTIG, ZTE USA QTEGO QTEGO Design Design Hublot Hublot tional setts L.P. Corporate Sponsors Corporate Sponsors

Promoter Line Incorporated Festival AXA Equitable Life Insurance Com- Mercedes-Benz ofSouth Charlotte Independent PurchasingIndependent Coopera- Franklin American Mortgage Com- Bank of America Ser- Investment Children's Hospital of Wisconsin of Hospital Children's Wisconsin Albertsons Safeway, Albertsons Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance Demoulas Super Markets, Inc Abdo ConsultingGroup, Inc. RatPac Entertainment, LLC Mid Atlantic Benefits Group Abdo, Erick &Meyers, LLP Exelon Business Services FIJI CompanyWater LLC AZ Wireless Association AZ Wireless Blackberry Farms, LLC JPMorgan Chase & Co Bank of America Corp. Mastercard Worldwide Industrial Molinera CA Holland &Knight LLP Lipscomb University DE RE Gallery LLC DE REGallery Metro AutoAuction Cargill Incoporated Incoporated Cargill $10,000 – $24,999 $10,000 – & Concert Division Division & Concert American Express Company of Iowa. EMC Corporation EMC Corporation NFL Ventures LP NextGear Capital Altria Group Inc. Companies, Inc. Braman Motors Rock Ventures Blum Shaprio Paddle 8Inc. Associated First Solar vices, Inc. Reliance pany pany Pilot Pilot tive

29 FALL/WINTER| 16 LLC LLC atory fice L.L.P L.L.P fice Wiremold Wiremold ciation, Inc. ciation, Inc. WSFS Bank Bank WSFS Value Store It Value Store TTextiles LLC LLC TTextiles Race 13.1 LLC Race 13.1 Bendesky, P.C. Poder AC Civico, Waterstone Bank Bank Waterstone State Systems Inc State Systems Pratt Holdings,Inc. Opportunity Village Universal Fairs, Inc. Inc. Fairs, Universal The Mahoney GroupThe Mahoney Sonic Automotive Inc. Automotive Sonic Pension Services, Inc. Inc. Pension Services, We Work Management Management Work We Sap Software Solutions Technologyadvice, LLC Technologyadvice,

Rhizome Productions Inc Inc Productions Rhizome Prestige Medical Services Medical Prestige Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC LLC Advisors, Fargo Wells Wyatt Energy ManagementWyatt Energy The PENTA Building Group Saltz, Mongeluzzi, Barrett & Barrett Mongeluzzi, Saltz, Ribbit Management Company Ribbit Company Management Timothy E. McNutt, Sr. D.D.S. OSI Restaurant Partners LLC. Partners Restaurant OSI PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP LLP PriceWaterhouseCoopers Open Road of Manhattan, LLC LLC Manhattan, of Road Open Ridge Retirement Consultants, Shook, Hardy & Bacon, Law Of- Law & Bacon, Shook, Hardy PCI Strategic LLC Management, Snell Prosthetic & Orthotic Labor- Orthotic & Snell Prosthetic United Phoenix Firefighters Asso- Firefighters Phoenix United (cont’d) tor tor yers yers P.A. Ion Bank Bank Ion Nordstrom Nordstrom cobson LLP cobson LLP Merrill Edge Med Pro BillingMed Fedtech Carles Fedtech Carles EpiSource, LLC LLC EpiSource, tion Center P.A. P.A. Center tion MK Presents LLC LLC Presents MK Cox TargetCox Media Mayer Brown LLP Brown Mayer Misericordia Home Home Misericordia Duvine Adventures Duvine Intellon Corporation Corporation Intellon Northwestern Mutual Mutual Northwestern Net Conversion, LLC Net Conversion, LLC Fresh TilledFresh Soil LLC Living in the 603, LLC LLC the 603, Living in MillerInc. & Long DC, Magruder Corporation Corporation Magruder New Era Cap Co., Inc. Inc. Era Cap Co., New Hudson Valley Lighting Hudson Valley Inc. Company, Icemule Dart Group Corporation Dart Group Corporation Culinary Publishing LLC Publishing LLC Culinary Hyannis Air Service, Inc. Service, Air Hyannis Florida Community Bank Community Florida Delta Dental of Kentucky Kentucky Dental of Delta Lucwork Enterprises, Inc. Inc. Enterprises, Lucwork National Security Services Services Security National Cucinelli Holding Co., LLC Midcap Financial Services, LLC Services, LLC Financial Midcap Dynamic Therapy Services LLC LLC Services Therapy Dynamic John Michael Bailey Injury Law- Injury Bailey John Michael LKJ Management Services LLC LLC Services Management LKJ HMS Insurance Associates, Inc. Associates, Insurance HMS Kimmel,& Peltz, Carter, Roman Gray Robinson Attorneys at Law Law at Robinson Attorneys Gray Fort Bend Junior Service League League Service Bend Junior Fort J.E. Dunn Construction Company Company Dunn Construction J.E. Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Ja- Shriver Harris, Frank, Fried, Las Vegas Coffee Investors, LLC LLC Investors, Coffee Las Vegas Office of the Greene County Audi- County Greene the of Office Delaware Diagnostic & Rehabilita- Genovese Joblove & Battista, P.A. P.A. & Battista, Joblove Genovese Corporate Sponsors Sponsors Corporate

Inc. Inc. Inc. Inc. ices LLC AT&T TUUCI ComEd ComEd Viacom ing, Inc. Inc. ing, Buildium Buildium Cars.com Cars.com apolis, LLC apolis, Best Budies Best Budies & Ecker, P.A. Capital Group Group Capital Activision, Inc. Inc. Activision, Bloomberg L.P. Bahia9024, LLC Bahia9024, LLC $5,000 – $9,999 $5,000 – $9,999 Ronald Book PA Ronald Blaze Pizza, LLC Pizza, Blaze Angels In Disguise Angels In Disguise Alpha Delta Kappa Tusk Strategies Inc Inc Strategies Tusk Andrews Kurth LLP Kurth LLP Andrews Texas Capital Bank Bank Capital Texas Central Bank Pacific Shaklee Corporation Stanford Health Care Care Health Stanford Butler County Auditor Beauty & Pin-Ups, LLC. Entertainment Company Company Entertainment Bayanihan Student Organ Student Organ Bayanihan Sammons Financial Group Group Financial Sammons Chopra ImagingInc. Center, Blue Fish Bowl Volleyball Club Club Volleyball Bowl Fish Blue Behavior Intervention Services, Services, Intervention Behavior Charming Shoppes of Delware, Delware, of Charming Shoppes Berkshire Hathaway HomeServ- Hathaway Berkshire UNF BestAlliance Buddies Club Artisan Pictures LLC a Lionsgate Lionsgate LLC a Artisan Pictures Shulman, Rogers, Gandal, Pordy Pordy Gandal, Rogers, Shulman, Caesars Enterprise Services LLC LLC Services Caesars Enterprise AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP LP Pharmaceuticals AstraZeneca Choate's Air Conditioning & Heat- The Ultimate Software Group, Inc. Inc. Group, Software Ultimate The Anesthesia of Indian-Consultants Best Buddies International would like to thank the following corporate sponsors: would the following corporate International to thank like Best Buddies 30 FALL/WINTER| 16 Best Buddies International would like to thank the following individual donors: liketothankdonors: Best Buddies International thefollowing individual would Maureen &ArthurDemoulas Jan Miller &Jeffrey A. Rich Martha & Rick &Rick Martha De LaCroix May &James Liang Lintott Barbara & Stephen Hearst Michele &Howard Kessler Nancy & Mark Nancy &Mark Holowesko Armanda & Brian Hanson &Brian Armanda Kinga &EdwardKinga Lampert Nancy & Richard Rogers Rogers Nancy &Richard Moll & Charlie Anderson Anderson Moll &Charlie Lynn &Gregory O'Brien Tara &Charles Durham Rosana &Jose Cutrale Donna &George Zoley Holly & Thomas Gores Gina & Scott Ginsburg Sally &Randy Perkins us os Ferrero Luisa &Horst $100,000 – $249,999 $100,000 – Patricia & Bobby & Nail Patricia la ak Fisher Eloah &Mark Diane &Rick Siskey ac oi Karp Nancy &Kobi $25,000 – $49,999 $25,000 – $99,999 $50,000 – Georgina Hartland Hartland Georgina Patricia Kennedy Patricia Arlene Hillerson Hillerson Arlene Domenic Forino Benjamin Bram Patricio Farcuh Scott Durocher Adrienne Arsht Thomas Brady Maria Capurro Maureen Daly Kelly Gushue Tom Sullivan Sullivan Tom Ted English English Ted Lisa D'Urso Jan Brandt

Individual Donors Individual Donors Jackie SofferRob- Robins &Craig aai elr&Jm Feldman Jim & Natalie Wexler Kathleen &J. Edward Pearson Barbara & Howard Goldenfarb Rebecca Bowman Nassikas Samantha McFarland Boles CindyMarty & Sumichrast Diana Tran & Ryan & Brant Diana Tran Anabella & Alvaro Alvaro Anabella & Noboa Julie &Michael Connors Debbie &John Tolleson Cynthia Boich & Wayne Arlyn &StephenCypen Cindy & Michael Moran Gail &Bobby Cheney Gail Amira & Ron Simkins & RonSimkins Amira Sandy &Tony Tamer Anne &Craig Brewer Fay Zakhem &Salim Christopher Sullivan Stephanie & Irv Don Sue & Lester Smith Smith Sue &Lester $10,000 – $24,999 $10,000 – Carol &Jim Gragg Maureen Eimers Stephen Beneto Andy Barowsky Monique Fortin Fortin Monique Dougan Clarke Clarke Dougan Margaret Egan Kristina Daglio Daglio Kristina Stefan Brewer Jack Brennan oeh Eisler Joseph David Belluck Joc Pederson Angie Atema Atema Angie TC Schuttler Martin Ellen Ellen Martin Tom Godart Stuart Miller Mert Bakan Bakan Mert Sha Farley Sha Farley Dylan Seff Dylan Seff Eric Foss ins

Kelly MooneyKelly Henningsen &Scott DawnMichael & Schlesinger Gabrielle & Donald McCree DonaldMcCree & Gabrielle Janet & Robert Nakushian Kimberly & Gregory Hext Hext &Gregory Kimberly Marley &Brett Overman id ee Raphael Linda &Peter Duyen & Mark &Mark Duyen Nguyen Cathy & Scott Phllips Phllips Cathy &Scott Lorraine McDonough Lorraine Nina & Robert &Robert Nina Kotick Anstranig Hagopian Carol &Mike Gruber Kathryn &Craig Hall Bonnie &F. Mitchell Antonio Richardson Luis AlbertoNoboa John Wright Martin John Wright J. Douglas Douglas J. Rippeto Rhonda McDonald Rhonda McDonald Stephanie Hernan Michael Meldman Meldman Michael Patrick Levantino Levantino Patrick Sue &Stan Ruta David Jagolinzer Christa Hagearty Christina Griffith Doug McAninchDoug Gary Hammond Sheila Johnson Adan Gutierrez Adan Gutierrez Morton Kimmel Christy O'Pella Craig Rennick Rennick Craig Sally Heyman Sally Heyman Herbert Halila Halila Herbert Jeffrey Hirsch Allen Hansen Allen Hansen Kathy Ireland Marcus Hiles Hiles Marcus Viktor Gyuris Viktor Serita Jakes Mooney Mooney Steven Izen Kyrie Irving Kyrie Irving Kim Gurlitz Paul Riley Paul Riley (Continued on page 31) (Continued 31 FALL/WINTER| 16

Lacy RiceLacy Nunez Kim Premo Dave ShortDave Elliot Stone Bilal Saeed Evan WeissEvan Hutch Tyree Rich O'Brien John Watson Lucy Simkins Lucy Maria Olivero Maria Shriver Shriver Maria Larry Wallace Wallace Larry Kathryn Oliver Kathryn Heather Quinn Josh Wechsler Josh Wechsler Linda Rickman Rickman Linda Robert Sullivan Sullivan Robert Dan Spinazzola Robert WigginsRobert Waverly Peakes Peakes Waverly Ernest Remmey Remmey Ernest Joseph Nicholas Jacqueline Quinn Quinn Jacqueline Robert Stevanovski Robert Stevanovski Debra & Tom Perich Perich Tom & Debra Stephanie Nickerson Nickerson Stephanie Laura & Chad Laura & Chad Warrix Mona & John Oswald & John Oswald Mona Myrna & Bob Schlegel & Bob Schlegel Myrna Jeanne & J.C. Roberts Roberts Jeanne & J.C. TaraO'Rourke & Brian Wendy & Eric Schmidt Laura & George Pontikes Pontikes George Laura & Lindsay & Happy Walters & Happy Lindsay Colleen & WilliamColleen & O'Brien Denise & WalterDenise & Robinson Elizabeth & Gary Petersen Petersen & Gary Elizabeth Kimberly & Stephen Perich Lucinda & Javier Vincent Loya Loya Vincent & Javier Lucinda Victoria Ranger-Nunez & Mike Victoria Ranger-Nunez Lucas Bacardi & Lara Shiftman Shiftman & Lara Lucas Bacardi

(cont’d) Hattie Hill Scott Fain Paul Haas Scott Hunt Mary Lipka Lipka Mary Francis Francis Anne Kubik Leo Govoni Danielle HajjDanielle Susan Mays Kyle Mooney Kyle Mike Hughes Alfred Longtin Alfred Longtin Thieu Nguyen Nguyen Thieu Jeffrey Leiden Jeffrey Tamar Hoapili Hoapili Tamar Mark D. Lovell Lovell D. Mark Helen Lysaker Dorothy Farrell Scott Messmer Scott Messmer Thomas Fisher Gaylord Miyata Miyata Gaylord James Javaras Javaras James Jessica Forrest Forrest Jessica Rebekah Lyons Lyons Rebekah Jim Gianopulos Brian McMahon Donald Hoffman Charles Gordon Juan Hernandez Juan Hernandez Jonathan Grayer Jonathan Grayer Bey Miltenberger Miltenberger Bey Shari & Eric Miller Charles Goodman Mary & Robert Haft & RobertMary Jana & Richard Fant Jana & Richard RuthGunning & Mark Ella & Horace & Horace Ella Kimball Erica & Mark Mutchnik Mutchnik & Mark Erica Cathy & Eliot Laurence & Eliot Laurence Cathy Christina & James Lohse & James Christina Lisa & Michael Holthouse Holthouse & Michael Lisa Kathleen & Donald Lazas Kathleen & Donald Lazas Teresa & Lorenzo Fertitta Fertitta Lorenzo & Teresa Angela & Tom McDermott McDermott Tom Angela & Elizabeth & Clint Freeland Freeland & Clint Elizabeth Mary McKenna & Mark Leeds Tara Hitchcock-Francis & Kenn Tara Hitchcock-Francis Individual Donors Donors Individual

Ray ButlerRay Alice Clark Dani Smith Bob Brown Bob Brown Ken Veach Robert Ellin Danny Cook Anita Davids Anita Davids Diane Corieri Aronsohn Aronsohn Steve Beneto Beneto Steve Ralph Winter William Adams Randall Edsall Stefan Brewer Brewer Stefan $5,000-$9,999 Kurt Buttenhoff Rafael Chavez Lindsay Bodkin Lindsay Patricia Villareal Jerry Thompson Thompson Jerry George Crowley Lyn & Scott Sohr Sohr & Scott Lyn Sudhakar Shenoy Sudhakar Shenoy Benjamin Bronston Benjamin Bronston Kelly & Doug Eaton & Doug Eaton Kelly Dwayne Andreason Dwayne Alexander Anderson Alexander Anderson Carole & Donald Dell Carla & Simon Shellis Carla & Simon Rafael Torre Lamuno Rafael Torre Pam & Mark Denesuk Pam & Mark Denesuk Kimberly & Barry TrotzKimberlyBarry & Sarah & Edward Baker Baker Sarah & Edward Patricia & Emmit Smith Eileen & John Connors Lucy & HenryLucy Billingsley Beeni & Devin Destefano Beeni & Devin Elizabeth & Lewis Swezy Swezy & Lewis Elizabeth Joseph & Marlyne Sexton Sexton Joseph & Marlyne Randy & Harlan Selesnick Selesnick & Harlan Randy Crystal & Johnny WimbreyCrystal & Johnny Debbie & Jeffrey Wechsler & Jeffrey Debbie Cathy & Mark DeVincentis Carolyn & Robert & Robert Carolyn Brennan Penny Tannenbaum & Michael Best Buddies International wouldindividual following the International Best Buddiesdonors: to thank like 32 FALL/WINTER| 16

Hublot Hublot llowing in-kind sponsors: Lacoste Lacoste NextCare NextCare LGi Linens LGi Linens Jacob Dietz Jacob Goorin Bros Bros Goorin Brett Ratner MY Skincare MY Tiffany & Co. Co. & Tiffany Getty ImagesGetty Kenneth Cole Cole Kenneth Boston Globe Globe Boston Carlton Media Media Carlton Qatar Airways Qatar Airways MadisonSouth MadisonSouth $5,000-$9,999 Randy Perkins Randy Fairmont Hotel Jacobs Design Design Jacobs Rafael Feliz Jr. Feliz Rafael Ricardo Bellino Bellino Ricardo Swirl Marketing Marketing Swirl M.C. Dean, Inc. Inc. Dean, M.C. Health WarriorsHealth tainebleau Hotel $10,000-$24,999 Harpoon Brewery Brewery Harpoon Paul Goldschmidt Paul Goldschmidt Gourmet Catering Catering Gourmet Edwards Wildman Edwards Amgen Tour of CA CA of Tour Amgen Peets Coffee & Tea & Coffee Peets Courthouse Express Express Courthouse Classic Party Rentals Rentals Party Classic William Grant & Sons Mastercard Worldwide Mastercard King Dahl Event Design Design Event King Dahl Kurt Warner Foundation Warner Kurt Foundation Quail Lodge & Golf Club & Golf Quail Lodge Evening Entertainment Group Group Entertainment Evening Genovese Joblvove & Battista The Moorings Village and Spa Spa and Village The Moorings e.frastructure Technologies, Inc. Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Glazer's Southern The Soffer Family Foundation & Fon- Foundation Family Soffer The Milwaukee Brewers Community Foundation Foundation Community Brewers Milwaukee *Contributors include the Hearst Ranch and Barbara & Stephen Hearst & Stephen Barbara and Ranch Hearst the include *Contributors

would the fo like to thank

In-Kind Sponsors Sponsors In-Kind

Comcast Comcast Guy Fieri Guy CBS/KPIX CBS/KPIX Tom Brady Tom Brady Gary Fears Fears Gary 90.9 WBUR90.9 Goorin Bros Bros Goorin Cannondale NBC/WHDH NBC/WHDH Niche Media Media Niche Maria Shriver Maria Getty ImagesGetty Boston Globe Globe Boston Romero Britto Clear Channel Channel Clear Seyfarth Shaw Shaw Seyfarth Joanne Jaxtimer Jaxtimer Joanne $25,000-$49,999 $50,000-$99,999 Michael Meldman Meldman Michael Cooking with Kids with Cooking Silicon Valley Bank Valley Silicon Bicycling Magazine Magazine Bicycling $100,000-$249,999 Aaron Gershenberg Gershenberg Aaron Hearst Corporation* Corporation* Hearst $250,000- $499,999 $250,000- E. & J. Gallo Winery E. & J. Gallo Pilot Freight Services Sara & Ugo Colombo Colombo Sara & Ugo Classic Party Rentals Rentals Party Classic $500,000 and Above and $500,000 Maureen & John Hailer & Hailer John Maureen Petersons Party Rental Party Petersons San Francisco Chronicle Chronicle San Francisco JCDecaux North America America North JCDecaux Penney & Gerry Klingman & Gerry Penney May Liang & James Lintott Lintott Liang & James May New England Audi Dealers Dealers Audi England New Jan Miller & Jeffrey A. Rich A. Rich Jeffrey & Miller Jan Accenture Federal Services Services Federal Accenture Tara & Kenn Hitchcock-Francis Kenn & Tara Alexander Hernandez-Dessauer Hernandez-Dessauer Alexander CBS Radio/98.5 The Sports Hub The Sports CBS Radio/98.5 Catherine-Anne & Patrick Markert Markert & Patrick Catherine-Anne Becca Cason Thrash & John Thrash Thrash & John Thrash Cason Becca Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy III Kennedy P. Joseph Congressman Aventura Worldwide Transportation Worldwide Aventura Service Transportation Best Buddies International International Best Buddies 33 FALL/WINTER| 16 The SullivanTom Inc. Foundation, May andStanley Sm Anthony R.Abraham Foundation, TheGEO GroupFoundation, Inc. B. Thomas Golisano Foundation Golisano Thomas B. Helping Hands Foundation, Inc. Liberty Mutual Fo The Batchelor Foundation, Inc. Carnival Cruise Line/Seabourn Kids Connect Charitable Fund Fund Charitable Connect Kids Englestad Family Foundation Highland StreetHighland Foundation Longwood Foundation, Inc. MGM Resorts International International Resorts MGM The TJX Foundation,The TJX Inc. Crimson Lion Foundation Burns Family Foundation The Caesars Foundation Best Buddies International would like to thank the following foundations: Best Buddies liketothankInternational foundations: thefollowing would Allen Family Foundation Allen Family Foundation $500,000 andAbove The Hearst Foundation Annenberg Foundation $100,000--$249,999 $250,000-$499,999 Lilly Endowment, Inc. Youth Initiative Fund TheFoundation Taft Emerson Collective Telmex Foundation $50,000-$99,999 PHLY Foundation Bessemer Trust CharityWorks CharityWorks CVS Health CVS Health Cruise Line Trust Inc.

undation, Inc. ith Charitable Charitable ith

Foundation Spotlight Foundation Spotlight Gore Family Memorial Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foun- The Mark & Mary FreitasFounda- New Hampshire Charitable Foun- velopmental Services Foundation Patricia DedmanPatricia FamilyFounda- San Diego Imperial Counties De- The SharonD. Lund Foundation PG &E Corporation Foundation William S. Abell Foundation Inc. S. Inc. AbellFoundation William Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Charitable Nina Mason Pulliam Cardinal Cushing Centers, Inc. Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust L. Trees Edith Ruderman Family Foundation The Becker Family Charitable Charitable Family Becker The Helen BaderFoundation, Inc. The Gheens Foundation, Inc. Durham Family Foundation Miles for Miles Foundation Miles Foundation for Miles Troesh FamilyTroesh Foundation Potawatomi Bingo Casino Peacock Foundation, Inc. The Lampert Foundation Special KidsFoundation Wells FargoWells Foundation $25,000-$49,999 The Crown Family Cooking with Kids with Kids Cooking Ansin Foundation Drew Foundation dation dation Trust Trust Fund tion tion

Charles E. Benidt Foundation, E.Benidt Inc.Charles Leslie C. & Regina A. Quick Char- A. &Regina C. Quick Leslie Boston Bruins Charitable Founda- Nationwide Insurance Foundation California Community Foundation Foundation Community California Leslie S.KingFu George S. andDolores Dore’ Ec- Omidyar Ohana Fund of the Ha- Disney Worldwide Services, Inc. Inc. Services, Disney Worldwide The Laffey McHugh Foundation Marshall R.Matley Foundation Florida International University Schoenleber Foundation, Inc. Fairfield County’sFairfield Community Kenneth Kenneth T. &EileenL. Norris MassMutual Financial Group wai’i Community Foundation Foundation wai’i Community Stackner Family Foundation Capital One Services, LLC Kevin C.Tang Foundation Houston Endowment, Houston Inc. The Comcast Foundation Nora Roberts Foundation State Street Foundation Community Foundation 1011 Founda KOVAR Corporation Corporation KOVAR Lakshmi Foundation First Hawaiian Bank Carolyn Foundation Target Corporation Corporation Target Boston Foundation $10,000-$24,999 Britto Central, Inc. Manpower Group itable Foundation itable FISA Foundation cles Foundation Accenture LLP Foundation Foundation tion, Inc.

(Continued onpage 34) (Continued nd of the Hawaii tion, Inc.

34 FALL/WINTER| 16 mmunity Foundation Foundation mmunity

. The Mead Foundation Foundation Mead The Welfare Foundation, Inc. Foundation, Welfare Doris Woolsey Foundation WM-NC Philanthropic North Philanthropic WM-NC Taco Bell Foundation for Teens for Foundation Bell Taco Alexander Russell Tulloch Trust Russell Tulloch Alexander TheVarietyCharity – Children’s United Way of Greater St. Louis St. WayGreater of United United Way of Southern Nevada Way Southern of United WHAS Crusade for Children, Inc. Inc. for Children, Crusade WHAS The Katharine Matthies Foundation Matthies Katharine The Waukesha County Co Waukesha County Charles and M.R. Shapiro Foundation, Inc. Inc. Foundation, Shapiro Charles and M.R.

tion, Inc. Inc. tion, Foundation SpotlightFoundation gacy Foundation gacy dianapolis, Inc. Inc. dianapolis, Foundation, Inc. Foundation, Inc. on ofWestern Mas- the Greater Milwau- Greater the

bus dation Adcieo Adcieo PNC Bank sachusetts sachusetts Foundation kee Foundation Foundation kee $5,000-$9,999 ChloesInc. Cause, Ohl Foundation,Inc. Butler County Auditor Jana Foundation, Inc. Jana Foundation, Elm Grove Junior Guild Guild Junior Elm Grove Team Shann Foundation Foundation Team Shann The Grainger Foundation Foundation Grainger The Doris Woolsey Foundation Samerian Founda The Columbus Foundation Foundation Columbus The Phoenix Suns Charities,Inc.Phoenix Hoffman Brothers Foundation Foundation Brothers Hoffman Brad Blank & Associates, Inc. Brad & Associates, Blank Suzanne Jovin Memorial Fund Fund Memorial Jovin Suzanne The Kevin C. Tang Foundation Tang Foundation C. Kevin The Nashville Predators Foundation Foundation Predators Nashville Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation Foundation Penguins Pittsburgh Freeman E. Fairfield Foundation Foundation Fairfield E. Freeman Charity Auctions Today.com LLC LLC Today.com Auctions Charity Junior League of In of Junior League Joseph G. Markoly Joseph G. Markoly Charming Shoppes of Delware, Inc. Delware, of Charming Shoppes Office of the Greene County Auditor Auditor County Greene the of Office June Rockwell Levy Foundation, Inc. Foundation,Inc. Levy June Rockwell Principal Financial Group Foundation Foundation Group Financial Principal Great River Carnival Association, Inc. Inc. Association, Carnival River Great John J. & Pauline Gerlach Foundation Foundation Gerlach John J. & Pauline George and Mary Josephine Hamman Hamman Josephine and Mary George Ottumwa Regional Le Regional Ottumwa Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino and Casino Racetrack Meadows Prairie Community Foundati Community John G. Gosnell & Jean R. Gosnell Foun- Gosnell R. Jean & Gosnell John G. Community Foundation of Howard County of Howard Foundation Community Luedke-Smith Fund at Fund Luedke-Smith Wisconsin State Council Knights of Colum- of Knights Council State Wisconsin Best Buddies International would the following foundations:International to thank like Best Buddies 35 FALL/WINTER| 16 36

Press Box Madari Pendas, Coordinator, Communications, Best Buddies International

Best Buddies is proud of all the accomplishments and success stories that have come along since the organization’s inception, and getting this kind of good news out front and center for the public to see is crucial. Here’s a look back at some of the press Best Buddies has garnered throughout 2016: x The 17th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented by Pepsi-Cola and Santander Bank raised $5.5 million dollars for Best Buddies International. The event began with the Tom Brady Football Challenge at Harvard stadium. Afterwards the inaugural Guy Cooking with Best Buddies Celebrity Food and Wine Festival occurred. These events received considerable attention in outlets such as the Boston Globe, Providence Journal, NESN, Com- cast Sports Network, Boston Herald, Boston Magazine, NBC/WHDH, CBS Sports, and many more. The Challenge concluded with a bike ride from Boston to Hyannis Port, which garnered lots of press with local outlets, such as the Cape Cod Times. x Born This Way has contributed greatly to the societal understanding of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by documenting the lives of seven young adults with Down syndrome. Best Buddies International has been incredibly involved with the program from its inception, such as running a PSA during the first airing, inviting Execu- tive Producer Jonathan Murray to speak at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference, and helping a cast member land her dream job. The show recently won an Emmy in the category of “Outstanding Unstructured Reality Pro- gram.” Several outlets covered the win, such as Disability Scoop, Washington Post, Fox Business News, Hollywood Reporter, and Emmy’s.com x This year Best Buddies Ohio celebrated friendship by hosting the inaugural Kyrie Irving Basketball Challenge. Com- ing off the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers NBA championship win Kyrie’s presence brought a myriad of media coverage to the event, as well as offered a great opportunity to further spread and share the Best Buddies mission. Outlets which covered the momentous event included, CBS Sports, NBC affiliate WKYC, SLAM Online, NBA.com, and Cleveland.com. x Best Buddies’ international programs have the tremendous task of bringing the Best Buddies mission of one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development to countries all over the world. Some of our great- est coverage has come from Latin America, a region which has greatly embraced and implemented Best Buddies programs; coverage in Latin America included: Radio Panama, Te Interesa, Zoom en Linea, and Color ABC. Our European and Middle Eastern coverage included: Bashinform Gulfia Akulova, Колкие иголки, The Irish Times, and Qatar Tribune. 37

Mailbag

“As you know, up until a few months ago, I was the Assistant Mayor of Bal Harbour. In that capacity, I repre- sented Bal Harbour on the Miami-Dade County League of Cities and began working with its Executive Direc- tor, Richard Kuper, and Best Buddies in trying to secure employment for adults in the municipalities within the league. I am very proud to say that many municipalities have stepped up and are employing a number of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. My initial intention of being involved comes from the fact that I have a son, Billy, that has some special needs and I know firsthand how important it is for him to be employed. Because of Best Buddies, Billy is now working at the City of Miami Beach as an office assistant. Words cannot express how his life has changed. He is glowing and happy, has the structure in his life that he so desperately needed, and most importantly, he feels good about himself as a contributing member of soci- ety. I had the opportunity to speak to his supervisor, Jackie last week and she said he is doing a great job and everyone loves him. I felt compelled to write this letter to you Anthony, to thank you from the bottom of my heart, for all that you do for this special population of people with intellectual and developmental disabili- ties. You have people like Kevin Devine and Andrea Schonenberg who truly care; you run this organization with passion, and you invite all involved into your home.” – Joni D. Blachar, Assistant Mayor of Bal Harbour

“I want to thank you for having the Best Buddies program at Wakeland. My daughter Miranda Money is par- ticipating in this for the first time this school year. She was lucky enough to be paired up with a girl named Lexi. I originally thought, ‘Oh, that’s such a nice thing to be a part of.’ Miranda is involved in the Junior Frisco Women’s League and does volunteer work through them; volunteers get hours, and help coach the little kids in our summer track club, Frisco Heat. I now realize that this program is so much more. One day after Miran- da came back from a Best Buddies weekend activity I asked her if she got ‘hours’ for that and not to forget to log them. She looked at me like I was crazy and said, ‘I don’t get hours for hanging out with my buddy, I like to do it and she is my friend!’ I felt ridiculous for even asking such a question, but also saw the passion she felt about the program and the bond she had formed with her buddy. Being in this area where there is so much emphasis on material and shallow things, it is nice that a program like Best Buddies can put the focus on what is important: being kind, making friends, understanding differences and respecting everyone.“ – Heather Money, Parent, Frisco, Texas

“I had never heard of your organization before last night and if what I saw was any indication of the type of work you do, you are to be highly commended. On July 20th, I was stuck at the Philadelphia airport waiting for a flight that had been repeatedly delayed. Also waiting for that flight was a group of teens and adults many of whom were wearing Best Buddies t-shirts. The teens were all well-behaved and seemed to be enjoying themselves, so I didn't pay a whole lot of attention to them. However, I noticed at one point, there was an el- derly woman sitting in the handicapped section of the waiting area who was visibly upset. When I first noticed her, she was crying on the shoulder of another woman. I thought they were together, but later I saw the el- derly woman was by herself. At one point, as I was heading to the restroom, I noticed the woman was crying again, and trying very hard not to be obvious about it, but you could tell she was really upset about some- thing. Upon my return from the restroom, I was surprised to see that four of the girls from the Best Buddies group had taken it upon themselves to sit with the woman to comfort her. They were talking to her, showing her photos on their phones, etc. and frankly, it brought me to tears to see how kind and caring those girls were. They were periodically joined by others from the group, but those four girls never left her side until it was time to board. By that time, the woman was smiling and even laughing. They had done wonders for her. As we were boarding, I heard one of those girls say how glad they were that they had decided to go talk to

16 that woman rather than sitting around wasting time. I did say something to one of the chaperones, but I just thought I would let you know that if these are the kinds of kids you are turning out in your program, you should be very proud of the work you do!” – Ellen Reed, Henniker, New Hampshire

FALL/WINTER| FALL/WINTER|