Best Buddies International, a groundbreaking nonprofit founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is excited to announce the Best Buddies Friendship Walk: April 30th at the Corn Crib in Normal, Il. The Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Central Illinois is the latest life-changing movement. Since 2009 more than 250,000 participants have walked in over 60 cities and raised more than $24 million for Best Buddies.
“Our Friendship Walks are one of Best Buddies’ most celebrated events, bringing communities together where they can experience our mission in action and engage with our program participants,” said Anthony K. Shriver, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Best Buddies International. “I am beyond grateful that the important work of this organization will continue, thanks to our participants, volunteers, partners and the entire community. I am confident that together we will continue empowering people with special abilities, connecting advocates, and mobilizing our supporters to create a more inclusive world.”
Among those expected to attend this year includes: Host Susan Saunders – Mornings on 101.5 WBNQ, Prairieland Federal Credit Union, and “Wheels of Freedom”, the only wheelchair accessible ride monster truck in the country!
Best Buddies in Central Illinois is proud to have 148 (and counting) participants lacing up their shoes to walk for inclusion, all working to surpass 2022’s fundraising goal of $75,000. Registration begins at 9am and the Walk commences at 10:20am at the Corn Crib, 1000 W. Raab Rd., Normal. Following the Walk, please join Best Buddies for a day of fun, family, wellness, and friendship.
Proceeds from the Friendship Walk are fundamental in supporting state programs that provide one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living. These programs can be found in all 50 states and will create promising opportunities for more than 350,000 people this year.
Walk for inclusion. Walk for friendship. Walk for a better Central Illinois!
For more information about the Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Central Illinois, please contact: Ryan LaCosse, Area Director, Best Buddies in Central Illinois at [email protected] or 309-531-7700. Visit their website at BestBuddiesFriendshipWalk.org/CentralIllinois.
