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For the past two weeks, I was fortunate enough to work with some talented kids, alongside teens at our Public Library in town. Us “big buddies” as we were called, worked with kids that had special needs, and we all worked together to put this program into a beautiful performance! The program split the two weeks into the first week for younger kids, and the next week older kids. In just one week, our kids read lines from a script, researched about different animals, and sang songs with sign language! Seeing the big smiles on these kids faces made me realize what life is truly about 🙂
My first week I was paired with an incoming 6th grader named Meredith. Her bright smile alone made me want to give her a big hug! Her passion and open – minded abilities to try new things made me as a buddy feel more comfortable. We did art, danced, sang, and played games! She loved gymnastics, and was going to try out for the Gymnastics team at her Middle School in the Winter. I can’t wait to see her shine!
My second week I was put with Francesca, a high school graduate who was going to attend BOCES this fall. Francesca had Down – Syndrome, but that did not stop her from having a great time. She LOVED to perform, especially in front of people. Her singing, dancing, and funny stories brought a special light to our group. One thing I found out about Francesca was her favorite song, “Unstoppable” by Sia. When you listen to the lyrics, the singer talks about she puts on her armor, to show how strong she is. Francesca is very strong, and does not let anyone get in her way of being a superstar!! I am so excited to see where the road takes her, because I know she will do great!!
As I was working with these kids and hearing their stories, it made me realize how lucky I am to have opportunities that these kids might not, and it’s not the ones of seeing a famous singer or traveling to a new place, it’s the dream of everyday life. For these kids, some will never learn how to drive a car, and might have trouble comprehending certain things in school, but that does not mean they can’t be successful! These kids are so passionate about their hobbies, and love their hands – on activities, as a way to help them understand what they are trying to learn.
I am so grateful I was able to work with these sweet and smart kids, and I can’t wait to see what they will all do in life! Everyone needs a buddy, so look around, see who is out there, they might just be right next to you!
