{"id":177409,"date":"2024-05-27T11:23:45","date_gmt":"2024-05-27T15:23:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/?page_id=177409"},"modified":"2024-05-28T13:24:08","modified_gmt":"2024-05-28T17:24:08","slug":"family-support","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/family-support\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Buddies Family Support"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dbd17aa\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h1>Best Buddies Family Support Program<\/h1>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row family vc_custom_1707931859927 highend_vc_custom_1707931859927\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-video fitVids clearfix\"><span><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Your Child Has a Disability - What\u2019s Next? Eunie&#039;s Buddies #WithYou\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/x8CE_i8Hl2g?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/span><\/div><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix eunie-slider\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:15px;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc59f5f\"><div class=\"eunie wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-8\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h2><span style=\"color: #333333; font-size: 25px; line-height: 27px;\">Eunie's Buddies<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_separator wpb_content_element vc_separator_align_center vc_sep_width_100 vc_sep_border_width_8 vc_sep_pos_align_left vc_separator_no_text vc_custom_1709056307296 wpb_content_element  vc_custom_1709056307296 wpb_content_element\" ><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_l\"><span style=\"border-color:#5BC2E7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_r\"><span style=\"border-color:#5BC2E7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix eunie-one\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:22px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p>Best Buddies Family Support offers families the support and resources needed to navigate the journey of raising a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).<\/p>\n<p>Eunie\u2019s Buddies serves as the pioneering program within the Family Support initiative. It is named affectionately in honor of <a href=\"\/eunice-kennedy-shriver\/\">Eunice Kennedy Shriver<\/a>,\u00a0founder of\u00a0Special Olympics\u00a0and\u00a0a true hero who advocated tirelessly for\u00a0positive change in the lives of\u00a0individuals with IDD.<\/p>\n<p>Eunie's Buddies pairs experienced parents of a child with an IDD with new parents who are expecting, have just welcomed a baby, or are raising a child up to the age of eight years old who has been recently diagnosed with an IDD. This pairing creates a mentor\u2013mentee connection and friendship. Eunie\u2019s Buddies provides a framework offering parents and caregivers encouragement, emotional support, and valuable resources. Participation in Eunie\u2019s Buddies helps families pave the way for a child with IDD to have an education, gainful employment, and a fulfilled life.<\/p>\n<p>Both in-person and eMentorship match opportunities are available. Click below learn more.<\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eunie wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix eunie-two\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:55px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"510\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/The-Value-of-Mentorship.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"\" title=\"Source: https:\/\/cepc.ucsf.edu\/sites\/cepc.ucsf.edu\/files\/Report-Family-Perspectives-Peer-Support-24-0627.pdf\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/The-Value-of-Mentorship.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/The-Value-of-Mentorship-150x100.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc5c521\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid cq-circular- cq-expandgrid-customized cq-expandgrid-avatar- cq-expandgrid-close-yes cq-expandgrid-in1 works vc_custom_1743523192515\" data-itemheight=\"54\" data-autoslide=\"no\" data-itemsize=\"customized\" data-transparentitem=\"yes\" data-openfirst=\"yes\" data-labelfontsize=\"\" data-nocircular=\"\" data-subfontsize=\"\" data-scrollto=\"\" data-scrolloffset=\"0\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#e6f7fc\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"none\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"#5BC2E7\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\"><strong>HOW IT WORKS<\/strong><\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #e6f7fc\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><p><strong>Matching<\/strong><br \/>\nMentors and mentees are paired based on similar\u202fdiagnoses, interests, native language, and other factors to help ensure a meaningful connection.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Communication and Meet-ups<\/strong><br \/>\nMentors and mentees connect when it feels natural, just like a friendship! When proximity allows for local mentorship connections, in-person meetings are encouraged to foster deeper relationships through quality time spent together.<\/p>\n<p>Eunie\u2019s Buddies is available across the United States through eMentorship, with in-person pairings offered in select cities.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:12px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>In-Person:<\/strong> for those who choose face-to-face interactions<br \/>\nYou will initially connect via text and can meet in person whenever you are comfortable and the time feels right. Please keep in mind that this option is only available in the following cities and surrounding areas: Boston, Miami, Nashville and Denver.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:12px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>eMentorship:<\/strong> for families who prefer virtual connections<br \/>\nSometimes your ideal match may be in a different location. You share similar diagnoses, interests and backgrounds, but happen to live in different cities. A strong bond is still possible! You will be able to connect over the phone, video, text or email. Please note that virtual mentorship could potentially limit the Mentor\u2019s familiarity with local resources. However, you can benefit from connecting with someone with a similar experience who will be there for you!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:12px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #333333; font-size: 25px; line-height: 27px;\">In-Person Mentorship Locations<\/span><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p>[ccj id=\"fs-map\"]<\/p>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 20px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc5d7d2\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid cq-circular- cq-expandgrid-320 cq-expandgrid-avatar- cq-expandgrid-close-yes cq-expandgrid-in4 family vc_custom_1741898285279\" data-itemheight=\"\" data-autoslide=\"no\" data-itemsize=\"320\" data-transparentitem=\"yes\" data-openfirst=\"yes\" data-labelfontsize=\"\" data-nocircular=\"\" data-subfontsize=\"\" data-scrollto=\"\" data-scrolloffset=\"0\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Family-Support-Mentee-Lead-photo-2.webp\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#e6f7fc\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"none\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\">Mentee<\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #e6f7fc\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-12 \">Have you recently received an IDD diagnosis for your child? We see you. We\u2019ve been there and we understand you. Amidst the uncertainty of this moment, one thing is for sure: <strong>you are not alone.<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nYou may be experiencing a range of overwhelming thoughts and emotions, which are absolutely normal. You may need time and space to process them. We are here to support you on your journey whenever you are ready. We will connect you with a mentor, a parent or caregiver of a child with a similar IDD diagnosis, who can offer a listening ear, insightful information, access to useful resources, encouragement, and genuine friendship. Your mentor is here to guide you step by step, at your own pace.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nBased on your preference, priorities, needs, and expectations, you can choose to be paired with a local mentor or connect with a mentor virtually.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-189219\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Family-Support-Mentee-Steps-Infographic.svg\" alt=\"Three-step process graphic: 1. Join the Program (blue), 2. Personalized Outreach (purple), 3. Get Matched (yellow), with icons representing each step.\" width=\"1120\" height=\"34\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:12px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<p>At Best Buddies we see an IDD diagnosis as an invitation to embrace a new perspective and to discover the beauty of this experience. We know that a diagnosis is not a prognosis, and we are dedicated to helping families and individuals with IDD thrive.<\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-6 join-now\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"join-now\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/forms.bestbuddies.org\/4903881?tfa_79=tfa_87\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Join Now<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-6 remind-me\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"remind-me\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/forms.bestbuddies.org\/4903881?tfa_79=tfa_2658\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Remind Me<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Buddies-section-image.webp\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#e6f7fc\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"none\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\">Mentor<\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #e6f7fc\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><p>A mentor is an experienced parent or caregiver of a child with an IDD who offers support, encouragement, knowledge, and a unique perspective to a mentee. They are paired, in-person or virtually, with one mentee at a time to ensure a mutually enriching connection.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:10px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-6 \"><strong>Key Qualifications:\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Must have a child with IDD. It is recommended that the child be under 20 years old.<\/li>\n<li>Alignment with the mission of Eunie\u2019s Buddies<\/li>\n<li>Empathy and sensitivity<\/li>\n<li>Active listening skills<\/li>\n<li>Non-judgment and unbiased attitude<\/li>\n<li>Prepared to share your experience<\/li>\n<li>Ability to drive distances of up to 30 miles<\/li>\n<li>Familiarity with available resources and services<\/li>\n<li>Confidentiality<\/li>\n<li>Must successfully pass a background check.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:12px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-6 \"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-187795 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Eunies-Buddies-Mentor-Timeline-e1743541478926.webp\" alt=\"Eunie's Buddies Mentor Timeline outlining four steps: 1. Join the Program, 2. Complete a Background Check, 3. Attend Mentor Training, and 4. Get Matched. The program matches mentors and mentees based on diagnoses, interests, backgrounds, languages, and other key factors.\" width=\"768\" height=\"612\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Eunies-Buddies-Mentor-Timeline-e1743541478926.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Eunies-Buddies-Mentor-Timeline-e1743541478926-150x120.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div><br \/>\n<\/div><br \/>\n<strong>Support for Mentors<\/strong><br \/>\nEunie\u2019s Buddies mentors can count on a designated point person who will provide support and address any questions or concerns that may arise throughout the process.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:10px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-6 join-now\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"join-now\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/forms.bestbuddies.org\/4903881?tfa_79=tfa_86\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Join Now<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-6 remind-me\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"remind-me\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/forms.bestbuddies.org\/4903881?tfa_79=tfa_2658\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Remind Me<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Resource-Image.webp\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#e6f7fc\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"none\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\">Resources<\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #e6f7fc\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><p>Our resources are designed to help mentees process and navigate a diagnosis. Our dedicated mentors offer personalized support, including tailored service recommendations, activity suggestions, and relevant information.<\/p>\n<div class=\"hb-accordion blue-accordion\" data-initialindex=\"-1\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Your Child\u2019s IDD Diagnosis: Start Here<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">Welcome to our supportive community! You are embarking on a journey filled with possibilities.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nA diagnosis can feel overwhelming, so here are some tips to consider as you process this news:<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:10px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Embrace Your Feelings:<\/strong> There is no right or wrong way to feel. It is natural to experience an array of thoughts and emotions; allow yourself to process them.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seek Reliable Information:<\/strong> Avoid searching online for diagnosis details. Our mentors are here to provide you with updated, accredited information from reliable sources tailored to your needs. They can offer insights into what life might look like with an IDD diagnosis and address any questions you may have.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Focus on Your Child:<\/strong> See the child, not the diagnosis. Your child still needs the same essentials as any other child: play, a bath, food, rest, cuddles, and most importantly, love. Children with IDD might require some extra support, but they are very much capable of extraordinary achievements.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Embrace the Possibilities:<\/strong> With the right support, everyone can reach their full potential. A diagnosis does not define a person, it is simply a part of the individual.<\/li>\n<li><strong>You are Not Alone:<\/strong> There are over 200 million families of children with IDD around the world. At Eunie\u2019s Buddies, we welcome you with open arms and connect you with parents and caregivers who are eager to meet you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nTake a deep breath, smile, and let's take this step by step.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-3 \"> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-182336 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-1.webp\" alt=\" A young girl with down syndrome is smiling and holding a sign that says, \" width=\"768\" height=\"1365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-1.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-1-576x1024.webp 576w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-1-84x150.webp 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col-3 \"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-182337 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-2.webp\" alt=\"Eunice Kennedy Shriver is holding up a female Special Olympic's arm. Underneath is a quote that says, \" width=\"768\" height=\"1365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-2.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-2-576x1024.webp 576w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-2-84x150.webp 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col-3 \"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-182338 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-3.webp\" alt=\" At an outdoor picnic, a mother is blowing bubbles as her small baby with down syndrome is looking and smiling. Underneath is a quote that says, \" width=\"768\" height=\"1365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-3.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-3-576x1024.webp 576w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-3-84x150.webp 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col-3 \"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-182339 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-4.webp\" alt=\" A father is behind his son watching him walk in a fall park setting. Underneath is a quote that says, \" width=\"768\" height=\"1365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-4.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-4-576x1024.webp 576w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Quote-4-84x150.webp 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Understanding this newfound Journey<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\"><div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-12 topics\"><br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #5a3f98; text-align: center;\">Welcome To Holland<\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong style=\"text-align: center;\">By Emily Perl Kingsley<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n<p>Copyright <sup>\u00a9<\/sup>1987 by Emily Perl Kingsley. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission of the author.<\/p>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"holland alignleft wp-image-182277\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-to-Holland-Valentina.webp\" alt=\"A little girl with Down syndrome smiles brightly, her pigtails framing her face.\" width=\"325\" height=\"488\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-to-Holland-Valentina.webp 767w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-to-Holland-Valentina-682x1024.webp 682w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-to-Holland-Valentina-100x150.webp 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 325px) 100vw, 325px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It\u2019s like this...<\/p>\n<p>When you\u2019re going to have a baby, it\u2019s like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It\u2019s all very exciting.<\/p>\n<p>After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The flight attendant comes in and says, \u201cWelcome to Holland.\u201d \u201cHolland?!?\u201d you say. \u201cWhat do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I\u2019m supposed to be in Italy. All my life I\u2019ve dreamed of going to Italy.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>But there\u2019s been a change in the flight plan. They\u2019ve landed in Holland and there you must stay.<\/p>\n<p>The important thing is that they haven\u2019t taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It\u2019s just a different place.<\/p>\n<p>So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s just a different place. It\u2019s slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you\u2019ve been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.<\/p>\n<p>But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they\u2019re all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say \u201cYes, that\u2019s where I was supposed to go. That\u2019s what I had planned.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss.<\/p>\n<p>But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn\u2019t get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland.<br \/>\n<\/div><div class=\"col-12 download\"><br \/>\n<a class=\"download hb-button\" href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/BB-Eunies-Buddies-Welcome-to-Holland-Letter.pdf\" download=\"Welcome To Holland\">DOWNLOAD <i class=\"icon-download-alt\"><\/i><\/a><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:6px;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Care for Caregivers<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>What is Self-Care? <\/strong><br \/>\nHave you ever wondered why airlines advise you to put on your own oxygen mask first before assisting your child? It is because you need to ensure your own safety before being able to help others. Self-care is essential for nurturing and protecting your own well-being. It encompasses intentional actions and practices that support your physical, mental, and emotional health. Prominent sources have highlighted that parents and caregivers who prioritize self-care often experience increased energy, improved focus, and a more positive outlook*.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:10px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<strong>Why is Self-Care Important? <\/strong><br \/>\nSetting aside time for yourself models healthy habits for your children, and also fosters a balanced environment that enables you to connect with your child, while being more present and engaged. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, making it challenging to provide the care and attention your children need. By prioritizing your own well-being, you create a healthy, supportive atmosphere for your entire family.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nConsider dedicating a few minutes each day to yourself. Self-care is a personalized practice, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to identify your own needs and priorities to create a self-care routine that is effective and sustainable.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nThe following bingo cards can be a fun and helpful way to incorporate small yet impactful acts of self-kindness into your routine. Ultimately, self-care will empower you to be the best parent you can be!<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:10px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-3 \"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Coping-Skills-BINGO.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"bingo aligncenter wp-image-183390 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Coping-Skills-BINGO.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"595\" height=\"842\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Coping-Skills-BINGO.webp 595w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Coping-Skills-BINGO-106x150.webp 106w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 595px) 100vw, 595px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"col-3 \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mindfulness-BINGO.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"bingo aligncenter wp-image-183392 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mindfulness-BINGO.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"595\" height=\"842\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mindfulness-BINGO.webp 595w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mindfulness-BINGO-106x150.webp 106w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 595px) 100vw, 595px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"col-3 \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Care-BINGO.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"bingo aligncenter wp-image-183394 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Care-BINGO.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"595\" height=\"842\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Care-BINGO.webp 595w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Care-BINGO-106x150.webp 106w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 595px) 100vw, 595px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"col-3 \"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Love-BINGO.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"bingo aligncenter wp-image-183396 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Love-BINGO.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"595\" height=\"842\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Love-BINGO.webp 595w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Self-Love-BINGO-106x150.webp 106w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 595px) 100vw, 595px\" \/><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<p>*Sources:<\/p>\n<div style=\"font-size: 10px; line-height: 12px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/blog\/self-care-for-the-caregiver-201810171716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/blog\/self-care-for-the-caregiver-201810171716 <\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8189552\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8189552\/ <\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/blog\/a-deeper-wellness\/202302\/understanding-the-mental-health-and-self-care-connection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/blog\/a-deeper-wellness\/202302\/understanding-the-mental-health-and-self-care-connection <\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Family-Support-Community-Box.webp\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#e6f7fc\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"none\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\">Community<\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #e6f7fc\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #e6f7fc\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><p>Eunie\u2019s Buddies believes that community plays a crucial role in helping families navigate their journey. Supportive spaces offer a safe and welcoming environment that fosters connection, growth, and fun. By engaging with others who understand and share similar experiences, families find comfort, insight, encouragement, and inspiration.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"online\">Online<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"hb-accordion blue-accordion\" data-initialindex=\"-1\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Webinars<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">Insightful webinars feature specialists, authors, and leaders in the disability community. Expert panelists dive into essential topics designed to empower families with knowledge and tools for the journey ahead.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\nCheck out our webinars on this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@EuniesBuddies\/playlists\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">link<\/a>!<br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-3 \"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Connection Series<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\"><div class=\"row clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"col-12 \">A welcoming space for parents to share, and connect on an emotional level. Hosted by inspiring parents and caregivers, each meeting is filled with personal stories and experiences, reminding participants of their own strength and connection to one another.<\/div><div class=\"col-12 download\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<strong>In-Person<\/strong><br \/>\nIn-person events bring families together to connect, share experiences, and celebrate their journey. These intimate gatherings help create lasting friendships and build a strong support network, honoring the unique path of each family.<br \/>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:0px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<strong>Find an event near you<\/strong>:<br \/>\n<div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-3 locations\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/mari\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"circle aligncenter wp-image-187345\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Boston.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"226\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Boston.webp 767w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Boston-150x97.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/mari\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Boston<\/a><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-3 locations\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/tennessee\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"circle aligncenter wp-image-182246\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BB-Living-Nashville-TN.webp\" alt=\"Skyline of Nashville, TN\" width=\"350\" height=\"191\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BB-Living-Nashville-TN.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/BB-Living-Nashville-TN-150x82.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/tennessee\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nashville<\/a><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-3 locations\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/florida\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"circle aligncenter wp-image-156043\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Living-Miami-house-4.webp\" alt=\"Ariel view of Miami\" width=\"350\" height=\"191\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Living-Miami-house-4.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Living-Miami-house-4-150x82.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/florida\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Miami<\/a><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-3 locations\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/colorado\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"circle aligncenter wp-image-187348\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Denver.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"175\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Denver.webp 767w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Denver-150x75.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/colorado\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Denver<\/a><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 20px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row family vc_custom_1707931859927 highend_vc_custom_1707931859927\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<!-- START Parental Support Slider Two REVOLUTION SLIDER 6.7.21 --><p class=\"rs-p-wp-fix\"><\/p>\n\t\t\t<rs-module-wrap id=\"rev_slider_112_1_wrapper\" data-source=\"gallery\" style=\"visibility:hidden;background:transparent;padding:0;margin:0px auto;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;max-width:none;\">\n\t\t\t\t<rs-module id=\"rev_slider_112_1\" style=\"\" data-version=\"6.7.21\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slides style=\"overflow: hidden; position: absolute;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-548\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-anim=\"ms:1000ms;p:transparent;\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"o:0;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"Two women sit on the grass, engaged in a pleasant conversation, with a young girl with Down syndrome sitting between them, playing with a blue toy. They are enjoying a serene moment outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery.\" title=\"Family Support New #1 Slider\" width=\"1600\" height=\"600\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-New-1-Slider.webp\" data-parallax=\"5\" data-no-retina>\n<!---->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-537\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-anim=\"ms:1000ms;p:transparent;\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"o:0;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"Eunies-Slider-1\" width=\"1263\" height=\"600\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Slider-1.webp\" data-parallax=\"5\" data-no-retina>\n<!---->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" 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Buddies Slider #4\" width=\"1263\" height=\"600\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Slider-v2.3.webp\" data-parallax=\"5\" data-no-retina>\n<!--\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--><rs-layer\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tid=\"slider-112-slide-541-layer-1\" \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-type=\"text\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-color=\"rgba(51, 51, 51, 0.15)\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-rsp_ch=\"on\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-xy=\"xo:30px,20px,20px,15px;y:b;yo:20px,20px,20px,10px;\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-text=\"w:normal;s:14,13,14,12;l:16,15,16,14;\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-frame_999=\"o:0;st:w;\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tstyle=\"z-index:6;font-family:'Open Sans';\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Laura Bernal Photography \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-layer><!--\n-->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-538\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-anim=\"p:transparent;\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"o:0;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"Parental guidance: Dad instructs son on bike while mom comforts daughter.\" title=\"Eunie&#8217;s Buddies Slide #5\" width=\"1600\" height=\"600\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Slider-v2.webp\" data-parallax=\"5\" data-no-retina>\n<!--\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--><rs-layer\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tid=\"slider-112-slide-538-layer-2\" \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-type=\"text\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.15)\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-rsp_ch=\"on\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-xy=\"xo:30px,20px,20px,15px;y:b;yo:20px,20px,20px,10px;\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-text=\"w:normal;s:14,13,14,12;l:16,15,16,14;\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-frame_999=\"o:0;st:w;\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tstyle=\"z-index:6;font-family:'Open Sans';\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Pipe Yanguas Photography \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-layer><!--\n-->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-542\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-anim=\"p:transparent;\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"o:0;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"Father proudly holding up his baby.\" title=\"Eunie&#8217;s Buddies Slide #6\" width=\"1600\" height=\"600\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Slider-v6.webp\" data-parallax=\"5\" data-no-retina>\n<!---->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slides>\n\t\t\t\t<\/rs-module>\n\t\t\t\t<script>\n\t\t\t\t\tsetREVStartSize({c: 'rev_slider_112_1',rl:[1240,1024,768,480],el:[600,600,500,228],gw:[1300,1263,778,480],gh:[600,600,500,228],type:'standard',justify:'',layout:'fullwidth',mh:\"0\"});if (window.RS_MODULES!==undefined && window.RS_MODULES.modules!==undefined && window.RS_MODULES.modules[\"revslider1121\"]!==undefined) {window.RS_MODULES.modules[\"revslider1121\"].once = false;window.revapi112 = undefined;if (window.RS_MODULES.checkMinimal!==undefined) window.RS_MODULES.checkMinimal()}\n\t\t\t\t<\/script>\n\t\t\t<\/rs-module-wrap>\n\t\t\t<!-- END REVOLUTION SLIDER -->\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix eunie-slider\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:15px;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-vc-full-width=\"true\" data-vc-full-width-init=\"false\" data-vc-stretch-content=\"true\" class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc6d90a vc_row-no-padding vc_row-flex vc_row-o-equal-height\"><div class=\"get-involved wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner vc_custom_1716250757214\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 20px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff; font-size: 27px; line-height: 29px; font-weight: 700!important;\">Join our Family Support network<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 22px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid cq-circular-nocircular cq-expandgrid-customized cq-expandgrid-avatar-80 cq-expandgrid-close-yes cq-expandgrid-in3 icons \" data-itemheight=\"50\" data-autoslide=\"no\" data-itemsize=\"customized\" data-transparentitem=\"\" data-openfirst=\"yes\" data-labelfontsize=\"\" data-nocircular=\"nocircular\" data-subfontsize=\"\" data-scrollto=\"yes\" data-scrolloffset=\"0\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#ffffff\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"image\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"#000000\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\">VOLUNTEER<\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #ffffff\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-6 \">Join our dedicated team of community volunteers at Eunie\u2019s Buddies to make a significant impact by supporting local outreach efforts, fostering crucial relationships with healthcare professionals, and promoting our program. Learn more and apply now to contribute.<\/p>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:22px;\"><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div class=\"family-reversed\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/family-support\/community-volunteer\/\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Community Volunteer<\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/div><div class=\"col-6 \"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-181313 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Volunteer-network-image.webp\" alt=\"Two men smiling and high-fiving outside.\" width=\"767\" height=\"427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Volunteer-network-image.webp 767w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Volunteer-network-image-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 767px\" \/><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate cq-transparent\" data-image=\"\" data-bgstyle=\"cq-transparent\" data-backgroundcolor=\"\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"image\" data-avatar=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/VM-icons.svg\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-avatar\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-item cq-expandgrid-initstate customized\" data-image=\"\" data-bgstyle=\"customized\" data-backgroundcolor=\"#ffffff\" data-backgroundhovercolor=\"\" data-avatartype=\"image\" data-avatar=\"\" data-contentcolor=\"\" data-iconcolor=\"\" data-iconsize=\"\" data-labelcolor=\"#000000\" data-subtitlecolor=\"\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-face cq-expandgrid-toggle\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-facecontent\"><span class=\"cq-expandgrid-title\">MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS<\/span> <\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-arrow\" style=\"border-bottom:15px solid #ffffff\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-content\" style=\"background-color: #ffffff\"><div class=\"cq-expandgrid-text\"><div class=\"row clearfix\"><div class=\"col-4 \"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"doctor alignleft wp-image-181314 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Medical-Professionals-image.webp\" alt=\"A doctor is holding a baby wearing a surgical mask and gloves.\" width=\"767\" height=\"625\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Medical-Professionals-image.webp 767w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Family-Support-Medical-Professionals-image-150x122.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 767px\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col-8 \">We understand the challenges that come with delivering a prenatal or post-natal IDD diagnosis.<\/p>\n<p>Eunie\u2019s Buddies is here to assist you in supporting your patients. Healthcare providers can offer families the opportunity to connect with experienced parents and caregivers of children with a similar diagnosis, referred to as Mentors. These Mentors can provide answers to their questions with a unique perspective, deep understanding, and a nurturing approach, offering valuable insights and support.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-181319 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/qrcode-bestbuddies-family-support.png\" alt=\"QR Code that goes to the Family Support page.\" width=\"100\" height=\"144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/qrcode-bestbuddies-family-support.png 3000w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/qrcode-bestbuddies-family-support-712x1024.png 712w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/qrcode-bestbuddies-family-support-104x150.png 104w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/qrcode-bestbuddies-family-support-1068x1536.png 1068w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/qrcode-bestbuddies-family-support-1424x2048.png 1424w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px\" \/><strong>To connect your patients with a Mentor please share this QR code with them:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"last-p\">To request our brochure please email us at <a href=\"mailto:EB@bestbuddies.org\">EB@bestbuddies.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><i class=\"fa fa-close cq-expandgrid-close\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 30px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.highend_689188dc6d90a{background-color: #59cbe8;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"vc_row-full-width vc_clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc6f6a5\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 20px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h3><span style=\"color: #333333; font-size: 25px; line-height: 27px;\">The Possibilities<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_separator wpb_content_element vc_separator_align_center vc_sep_width_100 vc_sep_border_width_8 vc_sep_pos_align_left vc_separator_no_text vc_custom_1709056307296 wpb_content_element  vc_custom_1709056307296 wpb_content_element\" ><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_l\"><span style=\"border-color:#5BC2E7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_r\"><span style=\"border-color:#5BC2E7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row vc_inner row vc_row-o-content-top vc_row-flex\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:22px;\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-testimonial-slider testimonial-slider-wrapper slides\"><div id=\"hb-testimonial-512\" class=\"ts-1 init-testimonial-slider\" data-slideshow-speed=\"5000\"><ul class=\"testimonial-slider\"><li class=\"hb-testimonial-box\">\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"hb-testimonial\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row row vc_custom_1730945719613 vc_row-has-fill highend_vc_custom_1730945719613\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row vc_inner row parent-story-row vc_custom_1730945752643 vc_row-has-fill vc_row-o-content-top vc_row-flex\"><div class=\"parent-story wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-6\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_left wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"498\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Michelle-Aventajados-Quote.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"Michelle Aventajado and her family stand beneath a verdant tree, their smiles radiating warmth and joy.\" title=\"Michelle Aventajado&#039;s Quote\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Michelle-Aventajados-Quote.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Michelle-Aventajados-Quote-150x97.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"parent-story-two wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-6\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h3><span style=\"font-size: 30px; line-height: 32px;\">A Caregiver\u2019s Perspective<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #ffffff; font-size: 22px; line-height: 24px; font-weight: bold;\"><strong>Michelle Aventajado<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff; font-size: 20px; line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal;\"><strong>Best Buddies Staff Member<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_separator wpb_content_element vc_separator_align_center vc_sep_width_100 vc_sep_border_width_8 vc_sep_pos_align_left vc_separator_no_text vc_custom_1709056334288 wpb_content_element  vc_custom_1709056334288 wpb_content_element\" ><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_l\"><span style=\"border-color:#5bc2e7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_r\"><span style=\"border-color:#5bc2e7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 12px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1730996777821 white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><strong>No one wants to feel alone<\/strong>. Even if I understood what Down syndrome was because I was a teacher and taught in inclusive classrooms, when the neonatologist gave me a birth diagnosis of Trisomy 21, I felt the full gamut of emotions that comes along with the understanding that my parenthood journey was forever going to be different. My husband Nino and I looked to each other for comfort, but\u2026<\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1731437650426 white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"family\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/family-support\/the-possibilities\/#story2\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Read More<\/a><\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li><li class=\"hb-testimonial-box\">\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"hb-testimonial\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row row vc_custom_1730945719613 vc_row-has-fill highend_vc_custom_1730945719613\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row vc_inner row parent-story-row vc_custom_1730945752643 vc_row-has-fill vc_row-o-content-top vc_row-flex\"><div class=\"parent-story wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-6\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_left wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"498\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Meet-Joshua-Felder.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"Joshua Felder, a Best Buddies Ambassador in a purple shirt, standing behind a podium with the Best Buddies logo, smiling and pointing forward.\" title=\"Meet Joshua Felder\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Meet-Joshua-Felder.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Meet-Joshua-Felder-150x97.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"parent-story-two wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-6\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h3><span style=\"font-size: 30px; line-height: 32px;\">The Possibilities<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #ffffff; font-size: 22px; line-height: 24px; font-weight: bold;\"><strong>Joshua Felder<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff; font-size: 20px; line-height: 22px; font-weight: bold;\"><strong>Best Buddies Global Ambassador<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_separator wpb_content_element vc_separator_align_center vc_sep_width_100 vc_sep_border_width_8 vc_sep_pos_align_left vc_separator_no_text vc_custom_1709056334288 wpb_content_element  vc_custom_1709056334288 wpb_content_element\" ><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_l\"><span style=\"border-color:#5bc2e7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_r\"><span style=\"border-color:#5bc2e7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 12px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1732635191937 white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p>Meet Joshua Felder, a Global Ambassador and International Board of Directors member for Best Buddies International. He is also the first person with a disability to be a dancer in the Super Bowl LV Halftime Show with The Weeknd and the first to be featured in a Showtime Original. He stars in the Woody Harrelson movie Champions and has appeared in The Drew Barrimore Show and the Today Show&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1731436119379 white-text\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"family\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/family-support\/the-possibilities\/\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-medium-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Read More<\/a><\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row vc_custom_1716250728960 highend_vc_custom_1716250728960\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element vc_custom_1708553776109  testamonial\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper vc_box_circle  vc_box_border_grey\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vc_single_image-img \" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/EKs-Richard-Carolans-quote-498x498.webp\" width=\"498\" height=\"498\" alt=\"Heartwarming scene: Father and daughter smiling.\" title=\"Richard Carolan&#039;s quote image\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element quote\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<center><h5><strong>Richard Carolan<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p style=\"color:#999\">Executive Director,<\/br>The Carolan Foundation<\/p><\/center>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-testimonial-box testimonial-box-wrapper family\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"hb-testimonial-box\">\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"hb-testimonial\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc7b1cc\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element family-quote\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<blockquote><p>\nI wish this program had existed when Victoria was born. I understand the emotions parents face when their child is diagnosed with an IDD, and I believe it can make a significant impact on the success of families.&#8221;\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"testimonial-author\"><h5 class=\"testimonial-author-name\">Richard Carolan<\/h5><a class=\"testimonial-company\">Executive Director, The Carolan Foundation<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element vc_custom_1708553355508  testamonial\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper vc_box_circle  vc_box_border_grey\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vc_single_image-img \" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/EB-Camille-Costa-quote-498x498.webp\" width=\"498\" height=\"498\" alt=\"EB Camille Costa quote\" title=\"EB Camille Costa quote\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:15px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element quote\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<center><h5><strong>Camille Costa<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p style=\"color:#999\">Mentor<\/p><\/center>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-testimonial-box testimonial-box-wrapper family\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"hb-testimonial-box\">\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"hb-testimonial\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc7e245\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element family-quote\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<blockquote><p>\nA program like Eunie&#8217;s Buddies can be a lifeline for parents of children with IDD, offering a space to be vulnerable and connect with another parent who truly understands and welcomes you with open arms. A diagnosis is not a prognosis and having someone by your side who has navigated a similar journey can positively impact the destiny of a family and their child.&#8221;\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"testimonial-author\"><h5 class=\"testimonial-author-name\">Camille Costa<\/h5><a class=\"testimonial-company\">Mentor<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element vc_custom_1709138176977  testamonial\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper vc_box_circle  vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/EB-Willa-Thorson-quote-300x300.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-medium\" alt=\"Mother and son smiling together.\" title=\"EB Willa Thorson quote\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/EB-Willa-Thorson-quote-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/EB-Willa-Thorson-quote-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/EB-Willa-Thorson-quote.webp 498w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-spacer clearfix\"><div class=\"spacer\" style=\"height:15px;\"><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element quote\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<center><h5><strong>Willa Thorson<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p style=\"color:#999\">Geneticist & Mother<\/p><\/center>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"shortcode-wrapper shortcode-testimonial-box testimonial-box-wrapper family\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"hb-testimonial-box\">\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"hb-testimonial\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc813ca\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element family-quote\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<blockquote><p>\nI was a medical geneticist, a physician specializing in taking care of children with special needs, when my son was diagnosed prenatally with Down syndrome. Despite all my knowledge about Down syndrome, I realized that I didn\u2019t know anything about what it was like to actually parent a child with this condition. Connecting with other families is really what provided me with the tools and resources to support my son and allow him to realize his full potential. I am excited for this program to be able to connect families so they can share their stories and form lasting bonds for themselves and their children.&#8221;\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"testimonial-author\"><h5 class=\"testimonial-author-name\">Willa Thorson<\/h5><a class=\"testimonial-company\">Geneticist &amp; Mother<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc81ec9\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h3><span style=\"color: #333333; font-size: 25px; line-height: 27px;\">Eunie's Buddies in the Media<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_separator wpb_content_element vc_separator_align_center vc_sep_width_100 vc_sep_border_width_8 vc_sep_pos_align_left vc_separator_no_text vc_custom_1717111494880 wpb_content_element  vc_custom_1717111494880 wpb_content_element\" ><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_l\"><span style=\"border-color:#5bc2e7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span><span class=\"vc_sep_holder vc_sep_holder_r\"><span style=\"border-color:#5bc2e7;\" class=\"vc_sep_line\"><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row vc_inner row vc_column-gap-35 vc_row-o-equal-height vc_row-o-content-top vc_row-flex\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/EcJ_0dki-8E\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Buddies-Today-Show-featured-Image.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"Best Buddies Global Ambassador and Journalist, Savannah Guthrie sits down in a TV interview with Founder, Chairman &amp; CEO, Anthony Kennedy Shriver.\" title=\"Eunies-Buddies-Today-Show-featured-Image\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Buddies-Today-Show-featured-Image.webp 1920w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Buddies-Today-Show-featured-Image-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Buddies-Today-Show-featured-Image-150x84.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Eunies-Buddies-Today-Show-featured-Image-1536x864.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1736793808122\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-183831 size-full alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/nbc-logo.webp\" alt=\"NBC logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"54\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Anthony K. Shriver appeared on NBC's Today Show with Savannah Guthrie to discuss the profound impact of Best Buddies\u2019 mission to foster inclusion and create opportunities for the IDD community, as well as the organization\u2019s new initiative,\u00a0Eunie\u2019s Buddies, which offers support to families raising children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Watch the interview <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/EcJ_0dki-8E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/special\/contributor-content\/2024\/07\/24\/best-buddies-launches-eunies-buddies-a-lifeline-for-families-with-children-with-special-needs\/74528884007\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/family-suport-usa-today-article.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"USA Today News Article cover featuring family support participants\" title=\"family-suport-usa-today article\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/family-suport-usa-today-article.webp 1920w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/family-suport-usa-today-article-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/family-suport-usa-today-article-150x84.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/family-suport-usa-today-article-1536x864.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1725478357456\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-183829 size-full alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/USA-Today-logo.webp\" alt=\"usa today logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"54\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Best Buddies Launches Eunie\u2019s Buddies: A Lifeline for Families with Children with Special Needs<\/p>\n<p>An experience that was supposed to be filled with joy and anticipation pivots sharply to confusion and grief. But what if amid that swirling chaos, a fellow parent who had walked this path showed up simply to listen and say, \u201cMe too - you are not alone\u201d?<\/p>\n<p><strong>Read the full article <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/special\/contributor-content\/2024\/07\/24\/best-buddies-launches-eunies-buddies-a-lifeline-for-families-with-children-with-special-needs\/74528884007\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/special\/contributor-content\/2024\/07\/24\/best-buddies-launches-eunies-buddies-a-lifeline-for-families-with-children-with-special-needs\/74528884007\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"825\" height=\"437\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/A-new-program-helps-connect-parents-who-have-kids-with-special-needs-with-mentors-featured-image.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"Two parents sitting on the grass in a park with their young children, smiling and playing together on a blanket under the trees.\" title=\"A new program helps connect parents who have kids with special needs with mentors - featured-image\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/A-new-program-helps-connect-parents-who-have-kids-with-special-needs-with-mentors-featured-image.webp 825w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/A-new-program-helps-connect-parents-who-have-kids-with-special-needs-with-mentors-featured-image-150x79.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 825px) 100vw, 825px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1744063615759\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-188025 size-full alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/wsvn-channel-7-logo.webp\" alt=\"WSVN Channel 7 logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"54\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Best Buddies is expanding with a new program called Eunie\u2019s Buddies, offering support to families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Inspired by her own journey, Kelly Caba now mentors moms like Camila Carpenter, helping them navigate the challenges of raising a child with disabilities and building a strong, supportive community.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Watch the interview and video <a href=\"https:\/\/wsvn.com\/news\/7spotlight\/a-new-program-helps-connect-parents-who-have-kids-with-special-needs-with-mentors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 32px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<!DOCTYPE html>\n<html lang=\"en\">\n<head>\n    <meta charset=\"UTF-8\">\n    <meta name=\"viewport\" content=\"width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0\">\n    <title>Load More Example<\/title>\n    <style>\n        body {\n            font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\n        }\n\n        .content {\n            display: none; \/* Hide content initially *\/\n            margin-top: 0px;\n            padding: 1px;\n            border: 0px solid #ddd;\n            border-radius: 0px;\n            background: transparent;\n        }\n\n        div .load-more {\n            display: block;\n            width: 100%!important;\n            margin: 0px auto;\n            padding: 15px;\n            text-align: center;\n           background-color: #FFF !important;\n    border: solid 2px #59399a !important;\n    color: #59399a;\n            border: none;\n            cursor: pointer;\n            border-radius: 3px;\n            font-size: 16px;\n        }\n\n        .load-more:hover {\n            background: #59399a!important;\n\t     color: #FFFFFF;\n\t     border: solid 2px #59399a !important;\n        }\n    <\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n\n    <button class=\"load-more\" id=\"loadMore\">Load More<\/button>\n\n    <div class=\"content-container\">\n        <div class=\"content\">\n          <div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc8569c\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_row element-row vc_inner row vc_column-gap-35 vc_row-o-equal-height vc_row-o-content-top vc_row-flex\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=2hZ3kAvJw8w\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"825\" height=\"464\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Best-Buddies-Family-Support-Program-top-image.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"\" title=\"Best Buddies Family Support Program top image\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Best-Buddies-Family-Support-Program-top-image.webp 825w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Best-Buddies-Family-Support-Program-top-image-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 825px) 100vw, 825px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1741375463728\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-185722 size-full alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Yahoo-News-logo-1.webp\" alt=\"Yahoo News\" width=\"150\" height=\"54\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Best Buddies Family Support provides families with essential resources to navigate raising a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Its pioneering program, Eunie's Buddies, honors Eunice Kennedy Shriver, a dedicated advocate for individuals with IDD and founder of Special Olympics.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Watch the video <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yahoo.com\/news\/best-buddies-family-support-program-212548233.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAG2woweFv3tSy4-J4FHm8XTydCCo53dX06D0Lge52DcJaipz5_EEBKBrIm5_d_A0DUwDf8cTD6IrMtDZR65HJNwGKFvET2W_I6OLVCbrF-INPUJATN0tD_a09UZwQE6asBsOTbEyXQKDxPZJlcDBzvDvtm896MgHxc7g2fC4Z9S8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\" id=\"wsvn\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div  class=\"wpb_single_image wpb_content_element vc_align_center wpb_content_element\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<figure class=\"wpb_wrapper vc_figure\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=2hZ3kAvJw8w\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"vc_single_image-wrapper   vc_box_border_grey\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/family-suport-7news-article.webp\" class=\"vc_single_image-img attachment-full\" alt=\"7 News broadcast screenshot\" title=\"family-suport-7news-article\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/family-suport-7news-article.webp 1920w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/family-suport-7news-article-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/family-suport-7news-article-150x84.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/family-suport-7news-article-1536x864.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element vc_custom_1744064412083\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-188035 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestbuddies.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Channel-7-News-Boston.webp\" alt=\"Channel 7 News Boston logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"54\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Getting an IDD diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming, but finding another parent who truly gets it can make all the difference. That\u2019s the heart of what we do at Eunie\u2019s Buddies through our mentorship program.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Watch the video <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=2hZ3kAvJw8w\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-4\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <script>\n        document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function() {\n            let content = document.querySelector(\".content\");\n            let loadMoreBtn = document.getElementById(\"loadMore\");\n\n            loadMoreBtn.addEventListener(\"click\", function() {\n                content.style.display = \"block\"; \/\/ Show content on button click\n                loadMoreBtn.style.display = \"none\"; \/\/ Hide button after content is shown\n            });\n        });\n    <\/script>\n\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc87ccb\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #333333; font-size: 25px; line-height: 27px;\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc88468\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-6\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"hb-accordion\" data-initialindex=\"-1\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Are there any fees associated with this program? <i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">There is no cost to join or participate in Eunie\u2019s Buddies.<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">Can I apply if the program is not in my state?<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">If you are interested in connecting remotely, you can apply for eMentorship in the United States.\n<\/br><\/br>\nFor in-person mentorship, please refer to our map for locations and dates. If our program is not currently available in your area, and you wish to be notified when the in-person mentorship launches in your city, please complete <a href=\"https:\/\/forms.bestbuddies.org\/4903888\">this form.<\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">How soon can I expect to be matched with a mentor? <i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">Please allow up to two weeks to be matched with your mentor.<br><br>Our mentors are parents or caregivers of a child with IDD who undergo thorough screening and training to provide you with guidance, support, and understanding. We take great care in matching you with a mentor who not only understands your needs, but also shares similar interests, cultural backgrounds, and diagnoses. <\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-6\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"hb-accordion\" data-initialindex=\"-1\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">What if my match is not a good fit?<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">Establishing a genuine connection in a mentorship relationship is essential. If you find that the relationship is not quite right, please let us know. We are committed to working with you to find a mentor who meets your needs.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-single\"><div class=\"hb-accordion-tab\">How can I get involved?<i class=\"icon-angle-right\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"hb-accordion-pane\">There are many ways to be a part of Eunie\u2019s Buddies<br><br>\n<ul><li>Mentor \u2013 a unique, and rewarding opportunity to share your experience, insight and transform someone\u2019s life.<\/li>\n<li>Community Parent Volunteer - assist with outreach, social media, coordinating local or virtual events, and other tasks! Your valuable time and skills can have a positive impact on many.<\/li>\n<li>Donate \u2013 your contribution will make a difference<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row element-row row highend_689188dc8924b\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><strong>Have additional questions?<\/strong> We're here for you!<\/span> <i class=\"hb-moon-mail\" aria-label=\"Email\"><\/i> Email us at<span style=\"color: #5a3f98;\"><a style=\"color: #5a3f98!important;\" href=\"mailto:EB@bestbuddies.org\"> EB@bestbuddies.org<\/a><\/span> or <i class=\"hb-moon-phone\" aria-label=\"Phone\"><\/i> call\/text 786.960.0506<\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element\" id=\"connect\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #5bc2e7;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #5a3f98;\">Follow Eunie's Buddies on<\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element vc_custom_1743528491252 connect\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<center>\n<ul class=\"custom_socials\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/profile.php?id=61572909161575\" target=\"_new\"><i class=\"hb-moon-facebook\" aria-label=\"Facebook\"><\/i><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@euniesbuddies\" target=\"_new\"><i class=\"hb-moon-tiktok\" aria-label=\"Twitter\"><\/i><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/euniesbuddies\/\" target=\"_new\"><i class=\"hb-moon-instagram\" aria-label=\"Instagram\"><\/i><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtube.com\/@euniesbuddies\" target=\"_new\"><i class=\"hb-moon-youtube\" aria-label=\"youtube\"><\/i><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul><\/center>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-vc-full-width=\"true\" data-vc-full-width-init=\"false\" data-vc-full-width=\"true\" data-vc-full-width-init=\"false\" id=\"bottom-image\" class=\"vc_row element-row row vc_custom_1742246616268 vc_row-has-fill vc_row-o-content-top vc_row-flex highend_vc_custom_1742246616268\"><div class=\"fw-content-wrap\"><div class=\"vc_row\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 100px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpb_raw_code wpb_raw_html wpb_content_element\" >\n\t\t<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<div style=\"float: right;\"><div class=\"family-reversed\"><a href=\"https:\/\/forms.bestbuddies.org\/4903888\" class=\"hb-button hb-default hb-large-button no-three-d\" target=\"_self\" style=\"-webkit-border-radius: 2px;-moz-border-radius: 2px;border-radius: 2px;\">Join Now<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_empty_space\"   style=\"height: 260px\"><span class=\"vc_empty_space_inner\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_row-full-width vc_clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"vc_row-full-width vc_clearfix\"><\/div>\r\n<style type=\"text\/css\">\/*map*\/\r\nhr {\r\n    height: 8px;\r\n    width: 100%;\r\n    margin: 15px 0px 10px 0px;\r\n    background: #5bc2e7;\r\n}\r\n\/*mentor*\/\r\n.family li {line-height:22px;\r\npadding-bottom:10px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*how it works*\/\r\n.works .cq-expandgrid-face.cq-expandgrid-toggle {\r\n  background:#FFFFFF!important;\r\n  border:solid 2px #5BC2E7;\r\n}\r\n.works .cq-expandgrid-face.cq-expandgrid-toggle:hover {\r\n    background: #5BC2E7 !important;\r\n    border: solid 2px #5BC2E7 !important;\r\n    color:#FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n.works .cq-expandgrid-title {color:#5BC2E7!important;\r\nfont-weight:bold;\r\n}\r\n.works .cq-expandgrid-title:hover {color:#FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n .works .cq-expandgrid-item.cq-expandgrid-openstate .cq-expandgrid-arrow {\r\n    bottom: -24px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*locations*\/\r\n#denver.wpb_text_column.wpb_content_element {\r\n    background-position:center top!important;\r\n}\r\n#boston.wpb_text_column.wpb_content_element {\r\n    background-position:center 20%!important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*social icons*\/\r\n#connect i,\r\n#connect a {\r\n\tcolor:#000000!important;\r\n}\r\n#connect i {\r\n    margin-top:-2px\r\n}\r\n.connect .custom_socials,\r\n.connect .custom_socials li a {\r\n\tcolor:#5a3f98!important;\r\n    vertical-align:top!important\r\n\r\n}\r\n.connect .custom_socials li:hover,\r\n.connect .custom_socials li a:hover {\r\n    color: #000000!important;\r\n}\r\ndiv .custom_socials li {\r\n    margin-right: 5px !important;\r\n}\r\n\/*event locations*\/\r\n.circle  {\r\nwidth: 70%;\r\n    max-width: 150px; \/* Adjust as needed *\/\r\n    height: auto; \/* Might cause oval shape, so override it *\/\r\n    aspect-ratio: 1 \/ 1; \/* Maintains perfect square *\/\r\n    border-radius: 50%;\r\n    object-fit: cover;\r\n    padding:5px 0px;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n.col-3.locations {\r\n    width: 25%!important;\r\n    margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:485px) {\r\n.col-3.locations {\r\n    width: 50%!important;\r\n    text-align: center;\r\npadding:0px;\r\n}\r\n.circle  {\r\nwidth: 80%;}\r\n}\r\n\/*end event locations*\/\r\n\/*adjust font title on 4 accordians*\/\r\n@media (max-width:949px) {\r\n.family .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n  font-size:20px!important;\r\n  vertical-align:middle; }\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:720px) {\r\n.family .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n  font-size:inherit!important; }\r\n}\r\n\/*end adjust font title on 4 accordians*\/\r\n\r\n.blue-accordion {margin-top:-7px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.slides i[class^=icon-] {\r\n    font-size: 15px;\r\n}\r\n\/*slides*\/\r\n\/*the possibilities*\/\r\n\/*the possibilities*\/\r\n.slides .hb-testimonial {\r\n    background: #5A3F98;\r\n}\r\n.slides .hb-testimonial {\r\n   padding: 0px;\r\n}\r\n.slides .vc_row-has-fill>.vc_column_container>.vc_column-inner {\r\n    padding:15px 20px 0px 15px!important;\r\n}\r\n.slides .hb-testimonial {\r\n    background: #5A3F98;\r\n}\r\n.wpb_wrapper ul {\r\n    padding-left: 0px !important;\r\n}\r\n.flex-control-nav li a.flex-active i:before {\r\n    color: #FFFFFF;\r\n}\r\n.slides .hb-testimonial:after {\r\n    display:none;\r\n}\r\n.slides i[class^=icon-] {\r\n    color: #FFFFFF;\r\n}\r\n.slides .flex-control-nav {\r\n    display: flex;\r\n    align-items: center;\r\n    justify-content: center;\r\n    gap: 5px;\r\n    padding-right: 20px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\ndiv.family .hb-button:hover {\r\n    background:#5BC2E7!important;\r\n\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*8-22-24*\/\r\n\/*icons*\/\r\n@media (max-width:768px){\r\n#matching .alignleft,\r\n#communication .alignleft,\r\n#meetups .alignleft {\r\nmax-height:100px;\r\nwidth:auto;\r\nfloat:none;\r\nmargin-left:auto;\r\nmargin-right:auto;\r\ndisplay:block; }\r\n}\r\n#today img {\r\n    max-height:50px;\r\n    width:auto;\r\n}\r\n.hb-accordion li {padding-bottom:10px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*bio buttons*\/\r\ni[class^=icon-] {\r\n    margin-top: 0px;\r\n }\r\n.crsl-nav a.next {\r\n    margin-right: -20px;\r\n    right: 0;\r\n     color:#FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n.crsl-nav a.previous {\r\n    margin-left: -20px;\r\n    left: 0;\r\n    color:#FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.crsl-nav a.next:hover,\r\n.crsl-nav a.next:previous {\r\n   background:#5a4099!important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\/*bios*\/\r\n@media (max-width:1154px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 350px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:1038px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 400px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:946px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 360px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:682px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 250px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:601px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 300px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:550px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 400px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:447px){\r\n div.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 250px;}   \r\n}\r\n\r\n.tmb-2 .team-member-description {\r\n    min-height: 300px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.tmb-2 .team-member-description .simple-read-more {\r\n    position: absolute;\r\n    bottom: 0; \/* Aligns the element to the bottom of its container *\/\r\n    left: 50%; \/* Centers the element horizontally *\/\r\n    transform: translateX(-50%); \/* Corrects the alignment since it's positioned absolutely *\/\r\n    text-align: center; \/* Centers the text within the element *\/\r\n    width: 100%; \/* Optional: Make sure it spans the entire width of the container *\/\r\n    margin: 0 auto; \/* Optional: If you want it centered with auto margins *\/\r\n\twidth:50%; \/* Optionally, if you want the element to shrink to fit the content *\/\r\n\tdisplay: block; \/* Ensures the element is treated as a block-level element *\/\r\n\tmargin-bottom:20px!important;\r\n\tpadding:10px 15px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.hb-main-content a.simple-read-more:hover {\r\ncolor: #5a4099!important;\r\nborder: solid 2px #5a4099!important;\r\nbackground:transparent!important;\r\n}\r\n.hb-main-content  a.simple-read-more {background:#5a4099;\r\ncolor:#FFFFFF!important;\r\npadding:5px 15px;text-align:center;\r\nmargin-top:10px;\r\nmargin-left:auto!important;\r\nmargin-right:auto!important;\r\ntext-transform: uppercase!important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n#main-content {background: linear-gradient(to bottom, \r\n#ffffff 0%,#ffffff 60%,#eefafd 100%);\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\/*8-13-24 Bingo Cards*\/\r\n.bingo {border: solid 1px #333333!important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*6-25-24*\/\r\n\/*Holland*\/\r\n@media (max-width:605px){\r\n.holland {width:100%;}\r\n}\r\n.holland {\r\nborder-bottom: 16px solid #5BC2E7!important;\r\n}\r\n\/*6-13 24*\/\r\n.hb-main-content a{\r\n    color: #59399a!important;\r\n}\r\n.hb-accordion-pane a  {\r\n    color: #333333;\r\n    box-shadow: inset 0 -2px 0 #9396CA;\r\n    -webkit-transition: color 0.1s ease-out;\r\n    transition: color 0.1s ease-out;\r\n    text-decoration: none;\r\n}\r\n\/*background footer button*\/\r\n@media (max-width:1070px){\r\n#bottom-image .family-reversed {\r\nmargin-top:20px;}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:1000px){\r\n#bottom-image .family-reversed {\r\nmargin-top:90px;}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:767px){\r\n#bottom-image .family-reversed {\r\nmargin-top:50px;}\r\n}\r\n\/*background footer image*\/\r\n\r\n@media (max-width:1920px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n\t\tbackground-position: 50% 10%!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n\r\n@media (max-width:1215px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n\t\tbackground-position: 50% 0%!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n\t\theight: 300px;\r\n        background-position: 30% 0%!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:613px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n        background-position: 40% 0%!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:572px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n        background-position: 30% 0%!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:516px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n\t\theight: 200px;\r\n        background-position: 50% 0%!important;\r\n    }\r\n    #bottom-image .family-reversed {\r\n      margin-top:10px!important;}\r\n    }\r\n@media (max-width:426px) {\r\n\t#bottom-image {\r\n\t\theight: 200px;\r\n        background-position: 40% 0%!important;\r\n        \r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*5-30-24*\/\r\n\r\nhtml, body {\r\n    overflow-x: hidden; \/* Prevent horizontal overflow on the whole page *\/\r\n    margin: 0;\r\n    padding: 0;\r\n}\r\n\r\n#map-container {\r\n    overflow: hidden; \/* Prevent overflow within the map container *\/\r\n    margin: 0;\r\n    padding: 0;\r\n    width: 100%;\r\n    max-width: 100%;\r\n    position: relative;\r\n}\r\n\r\n#us-map {\r\n    display: block;\r\n    width: 100%;\r\n    height: auto;\r\n    max-width: 100%;\r\n    margin: 0 auto; \/* Center the map horizontally *\/\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\/*download button*\/\r\n.hb-main-content a {\r\n    color: #59cbe8;\r\n    border: solid 0px #59cbe8;\r\n}\r\n.download.hb-button a {color:#59cbe8;\r\nbox-shadow: 0 3px 0 0 transparent;\r\nborder: solid 0px #59cbe8;\r\n}\r\n.download.hb-button{color:#59cbe8;\r\nbox-shadow: 0 3px 0 0 transparent;\r\nborder: solid 0px #59cbe8;\r\n}\r\n.download.hb-button a:hover {color:#FFFFFF;\r\nborder: solid 0px #59cbe8;\r\n}\r\n\/*center button*\/\r\n.col-12.download {text-align:center;\r\n}\r\n\/*center credits*\/\r\ndiv.col-12.topics > p:nth-child(6) {\r\n    font-size:14px;text-align:center;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*5-29-24*\/\r\ndiv.cq-expandgrid-avatar-80 .cq-expandgrid-avatar {\r\n    width: 70px;\r\n    height: 70px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.cq-transparent .cq-expandgrid-content, .cq-transparent .cq-expandgrid-arrow {display:none!important;\r\n}\r\n.cq-transparent .cq-expandgrid-facecontent {\r\n    -webkit-transform: translateY(-65%);\r\n    -moz-transform: translateY(-65%);\r\n    transform: translateY(-65%);\r\n}\r\n.cq-transparent .icon .cq-expandgrid-arrow {\r\n  transition: all 0.0s ease-in-out 0.0s!important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\/*white icons*\/\r\n@media (max-width:780px){\r\n    div.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n    font-size: 1em;\r\n    width: 250px;}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:684px){\r\n  .get-involved .cq-expandgrid-in2 .cq-expandgrid-item {\r\n    width: calc(100% - 8px);\r\n  padding-bottom:10px;}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:386px){\r\n    .get-involved .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n    font-size: .75em;\r\n    width: 60vw;}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:367px){\r\n    div.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n    font-size: .75em!important;\r\n    width: 60vw;}\r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\/*quotes*\/\r\n.family blockquote {\r\n    padding: 0px 0 10px 30px;\r\n}\r\nblockquote:before {\r\n    font: 15px \/ 1 Icomoon;\r\n    color:#5BC2E7;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:1191px) {\r\n.row .col-6.inspiration blockquote {\r\n  min-height:100px}    \r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n.row .col-6.inspiration blockquote {\r\n  min-height:auto}    \r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*icon*\/\r\n.cq-expandgrid-avatar-40 .cq-expandgrid-avatar  {\r\n    height: 50px!important;\r\n    width:50px!important;\r\n    vertical-align: top;\r\n        padding-right: 5px;\r\n}\r\n\r\ndiv.cq-expandgrid-avatar {\r\n    width: 60px;\r\n    height: 60px;\r\n    border-radius:0%!important;\r\n    background-size: contain;\r\n    background-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\r\n}\r\n#eb-icon  {\r\n  width:80%\r\n}\r\n@media(max-width:866px){\r\n #eb-icon  {\r\n  width:40%;\r\n  margin:auto;\r\n   padding:20px 0px;}   \r\n}\r\n@media(max-width:520px){\r\n #eb-icon  {\r\n  width:60%;}   \r\n}\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\/*join me and remind me buttons*\/\r\n.join-now {float:right;\r\n\t\t   min-width:145px\r\n }\r\n.remind-me {float:left;\r\n\t\t\tmin-width:145px\r\n }\r\n@media (max-width:767px){\r\ndiv.col-6.join-now {width:50%!important;\r\n}\r\n div.col-6.remind-me {width:50%!important;}\r\n} \r\n@media (max-width:467px){\r\n.join-now .hb-button, \r\n.remind-me .hb-button {font-size:14px;\r\n }\r\n.remind-me {float:left;\r\nmin-width:145px;}\r\n }\r\n@media (max-width:400px){\r\ndiv.col-6.join-now {width:100%!important;\r\n    margin-bottom:0px!important;\r\n}\r\n div.col-6.remind-me {\r\n     width:100%!important;\r\n}\r\n.join-now .hb-button {\r\n\tmin-width:200px;       \r\n }\r\n.remind-me .hb-button{float:none;\r\n\t\t\tmin-width:200px;\r\n }\r\n.join-now {float:none;\r\n\t\t \r\n }\r\n.remind-me {float:none;}\r\n }\r\n\r\n\r\n@media (max-width:640px) {\r\n\t.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-content {\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 20px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:1450px) {\r\n\t.get-involved .vc_column-inner {\r\n\t\tpadding-left: 150px!important;\r\n\t\tpadding-right: 150px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:1098px) {\r\n\t.get-involved .vc_column-inner {\r\n\t\tpadding-left: 50px!important;\r\n\t\tpadding-right: 50px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n\t.get-involved .vc_column-inner {\r\n\t\tpadding-left: 25px!important;\r\n\t\tpadding-right: 25px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:728px) {\r\n\t.doctor.alignleft {\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n\/*topics box*\/\r\n\r\n\/*remove margin on tablet and mobile*\/\r\n\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n\t.row .col-6.topics {\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 0px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.topics.shortcode-spacer {\r\n\t\theight: 0px;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n\/*locations box*\/\r\n\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n\t.in-person .wpb_text_column {\r\n\t\tmax-width: 62%;\r\n\t\tmargin: auto;\r\n\t\tpadding: 15px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:440px) {\r\n\t.in-person .wpb_text_column {\r\n\t\tmax-width: 90%;\r\n\t\tmargin: auto;\r\n\t\tpadding: 15px!important;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/*get involved*\/\r\n\r\n.family-reversed .hb-button {\r\n\ttext-align: center;\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #59cbe8;\r\n\tbackground: #59cbe8!important;\r\n\tcolor: #FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n.family-reversed .hb-button:hover {\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #59cbe8;\r\n\tbackground: transparent!important;\r\n\tcolor: #5BC2E7!important;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-face.cq-expandgrid-toggle {\r\n\tbackground: transparent!important;\r\n}\r\n.cq-expandgrid-text .family-reversed {\r\n\ttext-align: center;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-text {\r\n\tbackground-color: #FFFFFF;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-arrow {\r\n\tborder-bottom: 15px solid #FFFFFF !important;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved.cq-expandgrid {\r\n\tbackground: transparent;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n\tfont-size: 1em!important;\r\n\twidth: 100%;\r\n\tfont-weight: bold;\r\n\tcolor: #FFFFFF!important;\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #FFFFFF;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved .cq-expandgrid-title {\r\n\tpadding: 10px 0px;\r\n\tmax-width: 270px;\r\n}\r\n.col-6 .family {\r\n\ttext-align: center;\r\n}\r\n.get-involved .family .hb-button {\r\n\tmin-width: 338px;\r\n}\r\n\/*story buttons*\/\r\n\r\ndiv.story .hb-button:hover {\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #FFFFFF;\r\n\tbackground: #FFFFFF;\r\n\tcolor: #59399a!important;\r\n}\r\ndiv.story .hb-button {\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #FFFFFF;\r\n\tbackground: transparent;\r\n\tcolor: #FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n\/*family buttons*\/\r\n\r\ndiv.family .hb-button {\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #59cbe8;\r\n\tbackground: transparent!important;\r\n\tcolor: #5BC2E7!important;\r\n}\r\ndiv.family .hb-button:hover {\r\n\tborder: solid 2px #59cbe8;\r\n\tbackground: #5BC2E7;\r\n\tcolor: #FFFFFF!important;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width:900px) {\r\n\t.family .hb-button {\r\n\t\tmargin-top: 20px;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n\/*testimonial quote*\/\r\n\r\n\/**quote**\/\r\n\r\n.family-quote blockquote {\r\n\tpadding: 10px 0 10px 35px;\r\n}\r\n.family-quote blockquote:before {\r\n\tcolor: #5BC2E7;\r\n\tfont-size: 18px;\r\n}\r\n.family-quote blockquote p {\r\n\tcolor: #333333\r\n}\r\ndiv.hb-testimonial {\r\n\tbackground: #eefafd;\r\n}\r\ndiv.hb-testimonial:after {\r\n\tbackground: #eefafd;\r\n}\r\n\/**quote**\/\r\n\r\n@media (max-width:767px) {\r\n\tdiv.vc_align_center.testamonial {\r\n\t\tmargin-top: -25px;\r\n\t}\r\n}\r\n.family .testimonial-author {\r\n\ttext-align: center;\r\n}\r\n.vc_align_center.testamonial {\r\n\tmax-width: 150px;\r\n\tmargin: auto;\r\n}\r\n.family .testimonial-author .testimonial-company {\r\n\ttext-align: center;\r\n}\r\n.testimonial-author h5, .family .testimonial-author .testimonial-company {\r\n\tmargin-top: 3px;\r\n}\r\n.family .testimonial-author-img, .testimonial-author-mock {\r\n\twidth: 100px!important;\r\n\theight: 100px!important;\r\n}\r\n.family .testimonial-author .testimonial-company 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