Friendship is just another word for love. And everyone needs more love!
One organization that promotes inclusivity and friendship is Best Buddies, a nonprofit dedicated to establishing global volunteer movements that foster one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
This May, our passionate staff and self-advocates in Long Island took part in the Best Buddies Friendship walk in Massapequa, Long Island. The idea to invite CFS to join the walk came from Oscar Segal, a member of the CFS family who is not only a self-advocate, but also an ambassador for Best Buddies.
When Oscar introduced the initiative, CFS staff rallied together to show their support by forming a CFS team they called “The Strong Island Voices” in honor of the CFS’ Long Island self-advocacy group’s name.
The annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk helps to foster support and inclusion for individuals with IDD. Since 2009, more than 150,000 participants in 60 cities have walked at the event. The funds raised at the Friendship Walks help to fund local Best Buddies programs.
One of CFS’ participants in this year’s walk, James Parks, is a member of CFS’ Strong Island Voices self-advocacy group. James has been a participant with CFS since 2005. James lives independently with his family and receives Community Habilitation support from his CFS DSP Anali Salas. He loves to participate in social opportunities where he can engage with his peers and make connections. In addition to being a self-advocate, James also keeps himself busy with his hobbies. He has a fondness for cars, working on bikes, and especially enjoys his e-bike, which serves as both his main mode of transportation and a recreational outlet.
James is beloved by all for his kind and helpful nature, often advising and guiding fellow bike enthusiasts. With a personable demeanor and a passion for learning, James embraces new experiences and opportunities, particularly those related to his hobbies.
Participating in the Best Buddies walk allowed James to make connections with vendors and new friends who share his passion for bikes, especially e-bikes. Throughout the day, James had discussions about bike mechanics and building connections that fostered his love for this hobby.
James expressed his excitement about attending the Electrify Expo at Nassau Coliseum with his DSP this August, and he eagerly looks forward to participating in the Best Buddies walk again next year. Reflecting on the experience, James says,
“I went to the walk because it was a worthy cause, and it was supporting people with disabilities. I am glad I went; everything was great – from the food to all the people I met!”
CFS applauds and supports Best Buddies’ commitment to establishing friendships, promoting integrated employment, developing leadership skills, and fostering inclusive living that aligns with our values.
A huge thank you to James, Oscar, and our staff for their tireless efforts to foster inclusivity, self-advocacy, and most of all – friendship and love!
