Buddies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“We Are the Big 33 Buddy Program”

 

 

 

“BUDDY TEAM”  -  PROGRAM A RESOUNDING SUCCESS

 

 

The “Buddy Team,” started in 1985, is a dynamic part of the Big 33 activities.  The team is comprised of over 200 special needs kids. During game week, the buddies are paired with players, cheerleaders, and coaches. Memories are developed through opportunities for exceptional kids to share time with their player, cheerleader or coach both on and off the practice field during the week preceding the game. This program has proven to be one of the most enjoyable, memorable and rewarding aspects of the Big 33 program, and has come to epitomize the goal set by the Big 33 Football Classic:  to create lifetime treasured memories for both the “buddies and the Big 33 Players, Cheerleaders, and Coaches.” 

 

The “Buddy” program has helped to build a foundation of hope and optimism.  With the support of sponsors and friends, Buddies and Players are encouraged to:

 

¨      Pursue their goals

¨      Have great expectations

¨      Develop their potential

¨      Be proud of their accomplishments no matter how big or small

¨      Be integral members of their families and of the community

¨      Be self determined and pursue excellence in services

¨      Seek optimal opportunities, development and enjoyment of life

¨      Commit to building lasting relationships with people facing a variety of challenges

 

The “Buddy Team” program would not be possible without its corporate sponsors. 

 

The Big 33 Scholarship Foundation is proud to offer, a $500.00 scholarship for exceptional needs students who plan to go on for further training after high school, and $1000 scholarship to a High School Senior who is pursuing degrees in Physical or Occupational therapy.

 

The success of the “Buddy Team” program is marked by the fact that both player and “Buddy” have so much to give.  It may be a simple souvenir or that final hug, but the memories of the Big 33 week last forever.

 

Outside of the game, the Big 33 Scholarship Foundation also holds a Buddy Reunion in August, Buddy Bowling in November, a Buddy Ball in the spring. We are working with other sports teams to get the Buddy Team involved.

Be a part of the Buddy Team!

The Big 33 Buddy programmed was designed to partner a special needs child with a Big 33 player and to allow both the buddy and the player to establish a special friendship.  Buddies have the opportunity to enjoy several activities throughout the year such as Buddy Bowling, and a spring dance known as the Buddy Ball.  Buddies also have the opportunity during the week of the game to have lunch with their player and attend the Big 33 Honors Banquet and the Big 33 Game.  For more information about the Big 33 Buddy Program, feel free to email Big 33 Buddy Coordinator, Laurie Eckenrode at leckenrode@big33.org.  Please feel free to also call our office for more information on how to be a buddy (717-774-3303).

Here are some documents that you might be interested in downloading: