Best Buddies Living Program

 

Imagine: Two women smiling and playing Pool. 

Imagine, you just graduated high school and you are ready to take the big step to going to college or going into the work force. You might want to live closer to campus or downtown where it’s easier to commute to your job. You consider moving out of your family’s house, but where do you start? 

 

Moving out on your own can be difficult and stressful for everyone. Especially those with an intellectual and developmental disability. At Best Buddies, there is a way to make an easy transition to living on your own. It’s called Best Buddies Living. 

 

I interviewed Holly Goshin, Senior Director of Living. 

What is Best Buddies Living?

The Best Buddies Living program represents one of our organization’s five key mission pillars, Inclusive Living. This program fosters an integrated experience for people with and without IDD to become active, contributing citizens who live independently in a dynamic environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

Who is qualified to be part of Best Buddies Living?

Residents - The Living program is open to individuals over the age of 18 who are ready to embrace independent living. Residents are asked to participate in weekly group meals and activities, maintain employment or attend a higher education program, and support fellow residents when needed.

Campus Immersion - Residents attend college games and participate in fitness classes, cultural events, holiday parties, volunteer opportunities, and sports activities alongside their student peers.

 

What is Best Buddies goal for Living?

 

To expand to as many communities as possible and offer this unique opportunity to more people. 

 

Where are Best Buddies Living located?

 

Image: A map of the United States. Top of the image says "We operate eight Best Buddies Living residences" The bottom imagine list the cities and states. Washington, D.C. (2). Gainesville FL, New Brunswick NJ, Miami FL,  Atlanta GA, Los Angeles CA, State College PA

 

Any hopes for future for Living?

To find more funding opportunities to allow for faster growth. 

If you are interested in participating in Living, you can learn more on Best Buddies International website. 

Learning to live independently is an important skill for anyone to learn. With Best Buddies Living it is a great opportunity for taking the first steps into living independently. 

In Friendship,

Michelle Yoshimine 

YLC Member (California)