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 vmorrow@udallas.edu