Best Buddies Helps Those with IDD

Serving the New York City region, Ted Vitale is the CEO of Petore Construction, a general-purpose contractor. Ted Vitale also donates to several non-profit organizations, including Best Buddies International, a group that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Headquartered in Miami, Best Buddies aids individuals who are on the autism spectrum or have Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other conditions. Noting that some 200 million people worldwide experience marginalization due to intellectual and developmental disabilities, the agency operates a fourfold program of assistance.

Best Buddies encourages the forging of friendships between people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working in middle schools, high schools, and colleges, these programs offer inclusive interactions that build confidence and self-esteem. They are also open to adults and those who prefer virtual interaction.

Living with others is another good way to build relationships. To this end, Best Buddies’ residential facility in Washington, DC, enhances social skills through parties, sports, weekly meals, and field trips.

Finally, the organization develops leadership skills with its Ambassadors and Promoters programs. Ambassadors learn speechmaking so they can share their living experiences with public interest groups, while promoters serve in schools without intellectual and developmental disabilities classes and participate in assemblies and fundraisers.