*Goodwill VISTA* Best Buddies Community Outreach VISTA

Best Buddies aims to eradicate the social, emotional, and economic disparities of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs are based upon our belief that people with disabilities have the capacity to be loyal friends, strong community leaders, and valued citizens. People with IDD can and should be integrated seamlessly into the fabric of the communities in which they live - yet often they are separated from the rest of the population with few opportunities to make friendships and the long-term consequences of such exclusion are devastating. People with IDD face even greater economic challenges. Mainers with IDD live in poverty at nearly twice the rate of Mainers without IDD. Best Buddies aims to address this inequity through inclusive friendships, leadership opportunities, and employment programs that empower individuals with IDD to build social connections, develop skills, and access meaningful opportunities. By creating a more inclusive community we work to break down barriers to social and economic participation, helping individuals with IDD lead fulfilling and independent lives. The Best Buddies Citizens program works with individuals 18+, meeting a crucial need within our community as many adults with IDD have limited opportunities to further their education beyond high school and may have difficulty securing employment, limiting their social circle. Through the Citizens program, adults with IDD have the opportunity to make meaningful connections in their communities. While establishing one-to-one friendships between adults with and without IDD is a main goal of this program, Best Buddies Citizens also works to build community amongst our members. This is achieved through offering a variety of social activities throughout the year and engaging members in state events and local stewardship efforts. The power of our programs lies in its simplicity: everyone does better with a friend. Visit www.bestbuddies.org.maine to learn more.