This year, over 1,000 people participated in the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, a cycling, run, and walk fundraiser from Boston to Hyannis Port, May 31 – June 1. Former Miami University Best Buddies member, Flynn Erickson, successfully completed the Best Buddies Challenge alongside his dad, Troy. The Best Buddies Challenge raises funds and awareness for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Reflecting on his Best Buddies experience, Flynn shared, “Looking back on college, many of my favorite memories involve spending time with Tommy and many other members of Best Buddies at Miami. I was lucky enough to be Tom’s buddy all four years at Miami, and our friendship continues to grow. Tommy and his parents felt like a second family, and they were always there for me. Everyone deserves a friend, and friendship is a two-way street. I am riding so that others can experience the amazing friendships and sense of community that Best Buddies provides.”

Flynn’s dedication to the Best Buddies’ mission is a testament to the impact that inclusive friendship has on participants. The sense of belonging and the meaningful friendships formed through the program are evident in Flynn’s ongoing relationship with Tommy. The bond they share extends beyond their college years, demonstrating the lasting influence of Best Buddies.

Connie Mehlman, Chair of the Best Buddies in Ohio Advisory Board and former advisor to Best Buddies at Miami University, attended the event with her husband, Ted, to cheer Flynn on. Connie reminisced about her involvement with Best Buddies, saying,

“I would have to say attending the event was so much fun. Twenty years ago, I participated in the bike ride myself. At the time, Best Buddies was just getting started in Ohio. Little did I know at that time that the Miami Chapter would still be going strong and leaving a lasting impact on the students who participated. We have alumni who are now on Best Buddies staff, leading fundraising events in Ohio and now participating in the Hyannis Challenge. It was great to cheer on Flynn and his Dad. Both of Flynn’s siblings are also involved in Best Buddies, one at the Miami Chapter and the other at Michigan University. Flynn’s buddy Tommy and his family are heading to Massachusetts for a visit this summer. It’s wonderful to see their friendship continue.”

The Best Buddies Challenge is more than a physical feat; it is a celebration of the spirit of inclusion and the power of friendship. Flynn Erickson’s participation and the support from the Best Buddies community highlight Best Buddies’ mission to create meaningful, long-lasting relationships and advocate for individuals with disabilities.

Flynn and Troy Erickson truly went the extra mile to promote inclusion. We thank them and all those who donated to their ride and went out to support them. Your dedication makes the mission of inclusion possible and continues to inspire others to join the cause.

If you are interested in joining Best Buddies, visit: bestbuddies.org/join or contact Ohio@bestbuddies.org for more information.