What is Gym Buddies?
- A Friendship Program
- Matches adults with and without developmental disabilities in one-to-one friendships
- Helps put an end to the social isolation that many individuals with disabilities face and provides increased connection to the community
Commitment:
- Participants commit to at least a one-year friendship
- Get together in person for two to four hours per month
- Maintain weekly contact (phone, email, social media, etc.)
- Participate in quarterly large group events with other Citizens buddy pairs (optional)
Benefits:
- By spending time with one another, the lives of both individuals are enhanced through mutually-enriching friendship
- Everyone involved with the program learns to see the world from a brand-new perspective, becoming more understanding, patient and accepting of others within society
Participation Requirements:
- Must be over the age of 18
- Have a genuine interest in forming a new friendship
- Submit a completed membership application and referrals
- Complete a criminal background check
- Required for individuals with and without disabilities
- All participants must have clear background screenings in order to be matched or attend Best Buddies Citizens Program events
- Be or become a member of the Carle Health & Fitness Center
Matches – the Program Attempts to Match Individuals Who:
- Are ideally of the same gender
- Are ideally of similar ages
- Share common interests
- Live or work in close proximity to each other
