By Linda Kordek Milton | Best Buddies State Director, Texas
Best Buddies is excited to share our newest update with our allies and investors. Remember Fran whose story we shared with you over a year ago? She was awarded Employee of the Year at our Best Buddies Leadership Conference last summer, where nearly 2,000 student and community leaders gathered for a weekend of training and inspiration. Since then, Fran has been named to the Best Buddies National Board of Directors and has travelled around the country and soon the world with our founder, Anthony Kenned Shriver to share her story of growth and employment success. Just last month, at the same conference, Fran received the Best Buddies Leadership Conference Spirit of Courage Award. She has become a true celebrity within the Best Buddies world. Read Fran's own words, when asked "Who or what led you to become a self-advocate in Best Buddies and what do you hope to accomplish?"
My job coach Cheyenne introduced me to best buddies as part of the jobs program. She taught me skills I needed to get a job but she was like Glinda the good witch from wizard of oz, she showed me I had the confidence in me all along. Watching her advocate for me helped me become a better advocate for myself and others with IDD. I hope to help people w IDD see that they have what it takes to get the job of their dreams! I also hope to encourage more employers to hire people with IDD like my boss Leisha Orman did.
We are also happy to share a story on another Best Buddies Jobs participant - Maecy. Here is her story:
In 2020, Maecy joined the Best Buddies Jobs program, eager to start building her career. Through the program, Maecy developed essential skills and gained confidence as she prepared for the job market. Since then, Maecy has gotten three different jobs through Best Buddies. In October 2023, Maecy and her Job Coach Minnie were focused on finding her dream job in animal care. They applied to multiple places, determined to find a position where Maecy could thrive.
In early spring 2024, Maecy interviewed for a full-time Doggie Day Care Team Member position at Wag'n Bone Dog Grooming and Daycare. The job felt like a perfect fit due to its close location and the welcoming, lively neighborhood. Maecy got the job and quickly took on the responsibility of ensuring dog safety and monitoring playtime, both indoors and outdoors. She loved being surrounded by happy, playful dogs and creating a safe, fun environment for them. After four months of hard work, Maecy reached a significant milestone—moving into her own apartment, a space she had long desired. For someone who values independence and a personal sanctuary, this move marked the start of a new chapter in her life, filled with both pride and fulfillment.
Thank you to the donors who support our mission of competitive, meaningful employment for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Texas!
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