Hello! My name is Valerie Strange, the incoming Advisory Board Chair for Best Buddies CT for Fall 2020-Summer 2022. I have been involved with the CT chapter for six years now, first, as a volunteer and support to the Friendship Walk, next as a Champion and supporter of that event, to this most recent role.

I am an occupational therapist (OT), with vast experience that spans 34 years. I have served individuals and families across the lifespan from birth to three years through older adults in a variety of settings that have included: acute care, neurorehabilitation on an inpatient and outpatient level, early intervention, school-based practice, and in adult day centers. Within this profession, my role is to help clients participate in meaningful activities and occupations that promote health and well-being, reduce barriers to participation, and/or to live productively with chronic illness and/or disability. Some examples include: helping children from birth through three years of age with developmental delays meet developmental milestones and progress in life skills expected at this age; supporting children and youth with disabilities to engage in their education and participate fully within their school settings; helping clients who sustain an injury regain the life skills they experienced prior to injury; or providing clients with chronic conditions the necessary supports/removal of barriers to maximize function in life skills or quality of life.

In addition, I serve as a Clinical Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy at Quinnipiac University where I have the privilege of educating OT students in lecture format, lab, fieldwork, and capstone experiences. With a passion and expertise in developmental disabilities, my scholarly pursuits focus on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and community integration, from work to independent living and social participation/friendships. All individuals have the right to participate in meaningful activities of choice, give back and be included in their communities, and develop social networks that expand opportunity. It is here that I feel my passion and the mission of Best Buddies align.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work with a tremendous group of volunteers, staff, ambassadors, and chapters within Best Buddies CT, and I look forward to connecting with you all in these next two years.