{"id":122108,"date":"2020-03-18T13:40:09","date_gmt":"2020-03-18T17:40:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/?p=122108"},"modified":"2021-04-15T17:01:08","modified_gmt":"2021-04-15T21:01:08","slug":"a-message-from-best-buddies-internationals-leadership-team","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/leadershipteam-covid19","title":{"rendered":"March 17, 2020 – A Message from Best Buddies International\u2019s Leadership Team"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/p>\n
Dear Best Buddies Family,<\/p>\n
Over the past few weeks, there have been significant developments in the global, national, and local responses to the ongoing spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).<\/p>\n
Here at Best Buddies, everything we do is in an effort to bring people together and create a more inclusive world through the power of one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living opportunities. And that will never change. During times such as these, our friends with disabilities may feel more isolated than ever. That is why we must remain focused on the needs of our community and reaffirm the importance of creating a more accepting world for people of all abilities. Together, we will continue this work.<\/p>\n
These are indeed challenging times that are forcing us to consider new ways to connect with our participants and continue hosting Best Buddies events that showcase the heart and soul of our mission \u2014 inclusion for all<\/em>.<\/p>\n The following is an update on Best Buddies events and initiatives given the current COVID-19 situation:<\/p>\n Please know that we are closely monitoring this rapidly-evolving situation and will work diligently to ensure that we have the right plans and resources in place, in adherence to the expert guidance and recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local public health authorities.<\/p>\n Despite the unprecedented circumstances, we remain optimistic that our community will navigate these uncertain times with a spirit of empathy and understanding.<\/p>\n\n