Buddy Up For Life: Creating Inclusive Programming for Down Syndrome

Beth's journey with Buddy Up for Life began in the most organic way possible - as a mother simply trying to help her son Will learn tennis. What started as a weekend clinic has blossomed into a national organization with over 20 chapters across the country, serving more than 800 individuals with Down syndrome and engaging approximately 1,800 volunteers.

The core philosophy of Buddy Up for Life centers around the concept of "expect more" - creating an environment where individuals with Down syndrome are challenged, supported, and given opportunities to grow. Unlike many programs for those with intellectual disabilities that are event-driven, Buddy Up provides consistent, year-round programming that allows participants to develop skills through repetition and routine - something particularly beneficial for individuals with Down syndrome.

What makes Buddy Up truly special is its one-to-one pairing system, matching each athlete or student with a volunteer buddy. These relationships often transcend the organization, developing into meaningful friendships that address a critical social gap. As Beth explained, many individuals with Down syndrome have acquaintances who might high-five them in the hallway, but lack deeper connections for weekend activities and genuine friendship. The organization's "Connections" program specifically addresses this by pairing athletes with buddies for social outings during summer months.

The organization has evolved considerably from its tennis origins. When Will became interested in fitness, they created a hit circuit training program. When families needed summer activities, they developed a camp. Recognizing the need for supplemental education tailored to different learning styles, they expanded into life skills classes covering communication, finance, technology, cooking, and personal safety. This comprehensive approach serves individuals from age five through adulthood, acknowledging that people with Down syndrome are lifelong learners who benefit from ongoing support and education.

Beth's background in retail planning and allocation at Express provided a surprisingly relevant foundation for building this nonprofit. The skills of testing programs before scaling, creating consistent processes, managing budgets, and presenting funding requests have all translated perfectly to growing Buddy Up for Life. The organization operates primarily through donations, with their annual gala being their largest fundraiser, complemented by grants, Down Syndrome Association partnerships, and modest participant fees to ensure engagement.

The impact of Buddy Up extends far beyond the athletes themselves. Volunteers, ranging from teenagers fulfilling service hours to college athletes to adults, often find themselves profoundly affected by their experience. Many continue volunteering long after their required hours are complete, inspired by the determination and positive outlook of the participants they work with. There's something transformative about witnessing individuals overcome significant obstacles without complaint, simply working harder - a perspective that changes how volunteers approach their own challenges.

Beth's story demonstrates how addressing a personal need can evolve into creating systemic change when approached with dedication, vision, and community support. From a kitchen table operation to a national organization, Buddy Up for Life continues to raise the bar and create opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome to develop skills, build relationships, and thrive.