Buddy Up For Life serves individuals with Down syndrome by providing a fun, active, and supportive environment for physical and personal growth through activities that impact athletic, social, and emotional development. Volunteers serve as role models in one-on-one pairings, learning important life skills and gaining inspiration from participants. In a recent organization survey, 82 percent of participants’ parents indicated that school is not adequately preparing their children to live independently, or pursue a job or volunteer opportunity post-graduation. In response, the Buddy Up Life Skills Program was created, including the Technology for Life class.

Support for this Better Together project helped purchase iPads for Technology for Life participants to develop the computer skills necessary for employment, volunteer opportunities, and a sense of independence in adult life. Thank you for assisting Buddy Up For Life in providing the tools for participants to thrive as meaningful members of their community.

We are Better Together!

“Roan's favorite day of the week is the day he goes to Communication for Life class where he enjoys seeing people in person and learning new skills. This program has provided him with tools to start conversations with other people, and scripts for certain occasions, something that makes small talk much easier. We as parents value not only the communication skills that he is learning, but that he is making friends with other athletes.”

—​​Judith Dunham, Parent