Wishing you a Sweet New Year!
Rosh Hashanah is a time for joy, a time for new beginnings, celebrations and counting our blessings. Best Buddies International board member Bernie Yuman has been involved with Best Buddies since 1997 and played a key role in bringing the program to Nevada. Enjoy this special message from Bernie as he reflects on the joy and impact this organization has had on his life over the years. – Anthony K. Shriver
Best Buddies has impacted my life by enlightening me to the limitless possibilities for success, achievement, and productivity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Best Buddies has also enriched my life through my interactions with the Buddies….as their level of love, understanding, empathy, and ability is an epiphany.
My most memorable experience with Best Buddies is every summer in Bloomington, Indiana for the Leadership Conference. To embark on a journey in the middle of summer and be rewarded by being in the midst of thousands of people who are totally filled with spirituality and love, that have conviction, strength, courage, and the ability to stay focused is the most enriching experience. It’s truly all about the Buddies!
The greatest gift that people with IDD have is that they teach us how to be better people. Interfacing with a Buddy makes life better immediately. You are instantly aware of their possibilities. I truly do believe that as the decades evolve, people with IDD will be woven into communities around the word. Anthony’s dream of having Buddies in the workplace will increase many times from the amazing achievement of the program operating and excelling in more than 50 countries today!
I will always be grateful to Maria Shriver for introducing me to her brother, Anthony. We have been best friends ever since. His dedication, hard work and dream of a society where people with IDD are included and celebrated for their abilities makes you realize that truth is powerful. One person can sit in their dorm at Georgetown University and create a way to make the world a better place!”
L’Shana Tova to everyone celebrating!
In Friendship,
Bernie Yuman
Board Member
Best Buddies International