University of Dallas
Objectives By the end of this presentation, you will: 1.
Understand the purpose and mission of Best Buddies
2.
Learn the requirements of membership
3.
See exactly what we do
Best Buddies Mission Statement Best Buddies is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for oneto-one friendships and integrated employment.
What is an intellectual disability? • Intellectual disability, formerly referred to as mental retardation, causes a person to develop at a below average rate. • More than 7.5 million Americans live with an intellectual disability. More than 100,000 newborn babies are added to this number annually.
• Intellectual disability is not contagious because it is not a disease. • There are more than 200 known causes of intellectual disability, including: • • • • • • •
Rubella Syphilis Meningitis RH-factor Substance abuse Fragile X Syndrome Down Syndrome
History • Founded by Anthony Shriver in 1989 at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. • There are 1000 chapters of Best Buddies in middle schools, high schools, and colleges all across the world.
Membership Hi, I’m a Buddy!!
Buddy An person with an intellectual disability who works at The Citizens’ Development Center (CDC)
Membership • College Buddy • Contact buddy weekly by phone, email, letter, etc. • Participate in an activity with your buddy twice per month • Attend chapter meetings
• Associate Member • Attend events and assist with planning and organization
Fall 2004
Spring 2005
September 19
Meet Your Match Party
February 5
Valentine’s Day Brunch
October 2
Birthday Bash
February 25
Computer Day
October 16
Best Buddies Olympics
March 19
Sandy Lake Amusement Park
October 29
Halloween Party
April 2
March for Respect
November 13
Bowling Party
April 18
Texas Rangers Game
December 3
Holiday Party
April 30
UD Spring Picnic
Birthday Bash
Halloween Party
Bowling Party
Contact Information For more information about Best Buddies, please visit www.bestbuddies.org
To learn more about Best Buddies at the University of Dallas, please email
[email protected]
