Featured Profile

“It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Flava Fran! Autistic rapping Jew, overcomer, future homeless shelter founder, and Best Buddies Global Ambassador. I live in Dallas, Texas where I work at a preschool, thanks to the Best Buddies Jobs program and my jobs coach, Cheyenne. It is the most amazing job in the entire universe! I hope more people with disabilities will see it is possible to achieve their dream job, and that employers will give us a chance. My job brings so much light to my life and I hope to make your life brighter.

I believe the world is butterflies and rainbows! People try to tell me that it’s not, but I try to see the bright side in every situation. When I said I was an overcomer it was because I’m a survivor of 18 years of physical abuse. During my struggles, I learned to find joy in the little things like flowers and pretty colors. Another bright side is that my rough past gave me the drive to help others. A good way to find bright sides is through music. I love to write and perform uplifting raps to spread love and positive messages. Best Buddies has given me an outlet to spread even more love. From the Jobs program to the Ambassadors program to the Best Buddies Friendships Walks to hanging out with my buddies, Best Buddies has given me the biggest bright side I’ve ever had.

Before I conclude, I want you all to know that a big bright side is coming. When I introduced myself at the beginning of the speech I said future homeless shelter founder. My dream is to one day build a homeless shelter and call it the Bright side Homeless Shelter. That’s my dream, but I want all of you to know I believe in your dreams, and whether you have a disability or not, you can make your dreams come true; and looking on the bright side sure does help!

Best Buddies is the biggest bright side! Thank you all so much.”

– Fran, Best Buddies Global Ambassador