140 likes | 330 Views
University of Dallas. Objectives. By the end of this presentation, you will: Understand the purpose and mission of Best Buddies Learn the requirements of membership See exactly what we do. Best Buddies Mission Statement.
E N D
Objectives By the end of this presentation, you will: • Understand the purpose and mission of Best Buddies • Learn the requirements of membership • 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 one-to-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
Schedule of Events Fall 2004 September 19 Meet Your Match Party October 2 Birthday Bash October 16 Best Buddies Olympics October 29 Halloween Party November 13 Bowling Party December 3 Holiday Party Spring 2005 February 5 Valentine’s Day Brunch February 25 Computer Day March 19 Sandy Lake Amusement Park April 2 March for Respect April 18 Texas Rangers Game April 30 UD Spring Picnic
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 vmorrow@udallas.edu