Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Stephanie Royer from Best Buddies Tennessee, who highlights the nonprofit organization’s mission and local impact. Stephanie explains that Best Buddies is an international organization that fosters inclusion and friendship for people with IDD through one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, living programs, family support, and leadership development. She notes that Best Buddies operates in 40 countries and all 50 US states, with approximately 40 school chapters and various programs in West Tennessee and Memphis.
Stephanie details the structure of the school and adult programs in West Tennessee, emphasizing the importance of genuine, lifelong friendships and their positive ripple effects in the community. Stephanie shares testimonials about the deep impact of these friendships and discusses the integrated employment pillar, which is currently in Nashville with hopes to soon expand to West Tennessee.
The conversation also covers upcoming events, including the Friendship Ball, Friendship Walk, and the Champion of the Year Gala, which is being held on October 22 at the Kent in Memphis. The Champion of the Year Gala features five champions, including two Tennessee State Ambassadors, and includes activities such as a live band, silent auction, live auction, and games.
Stephanie highlights the joy and fulfillment that come from seeing participants thrive and build meaningful connections through Best Buddies. She concludes by providing information on how individuals and businesses can get involved through sponsorships, volunteering, or starting a chapter at their school, mentioning that interested parties can contact her directly at Stephanie.Royer@bestbuddies.org.
The website bestbuddies.org provides information about the organization, and the event details for The Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala can be found at www.bestbuddieschampion.org/Memphis.
