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LIFE Mower County has launched a local chapter of Best Buddies Citizens, a program designed to foster meaningful, one-on-one friendships between adults with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This initiative is part of LIFE Mower County’s ongoing commitment to promoting inclusion, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for individuals with IDD in our community.

Best Buddies Citizens aims to bridge the social gap many people with IDD face after they leave the structured environment of school. Without the social opportunities schools often provide, adults with IDD can find themselves isolated, lacking meaningful connections in their communities. Through this program, participants are paired with a buddy to form friendships that encourage inclusion, understanding, and mutual support. This program is about more than friendship; it’s about creating an inclusive and diverse community where everyone feels they belong and have a chance to contribute.

The program focuses on connecting adults in corporate and civic settings, emphasizing the value of diversity in these spaces. By fostering personal relationships, Best Buddies Citizens helps individuals with IDD become part of mainstream society and encourages those without IDD to see the unique strengths and perspectives of their peers. LIFE Mower County is seeking adults with and without IDD to participate in the program. Volunteers without IDD are encouraged to step forward as buddies, providing their time and commitment to help make a difference. Participants will receive training and ongoing support to ensure the success of their friendships.

If you are interested in joining the Best Buddies Citizens program as a buddy or a participant, contact LIFE Mower County at (507) 433-8994 or visit https://www.lifemowercounty.org/bestbuddies.   

Together, we can create a community where everyone is seen, heard, and valued. Let’s build bridges, change lives, and make Mower County a place where friendships thrive!

Wishing you a joyful holiday season

As the holiday season fills the air with warmth and cheer, LIFE Mower County extends heartfelt wishes for a joyful and peaceful time to all our friends, families, and supporters. This season, we celebrate the spirit of community and gratitude, honoring the individuals and families we serve and the generous contributions that make our programs possible. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones, reflecting on the year gone by, or looking forward to the opportunities ahead, we hope your holidays are filled with love, laughter, and connection. From all of us at LIFE Mower County, happy holidays and a very merry season to you and yours!

Upcoming Events

Dec. 16: People First Aktion Club  Ringing Bells for the Salvation Army at Runnings

Dec. 17: People First Aktion Club Christmas Party

Dec. 18: Special Olympics Bowling

Dec. 18: Youth/Family: Bowling

Dec. 19: Open Center

Dec. 20: Movie and Munchies – Falling for Christmas

Dec. 21: Lunch (Pizza Ranch) and a Movie (Mufasa: The Lion King)

You can see the full calendar at https://tinyurl.com/LIFEMCCalendar