The resource fair for students with disabilities hosted by the PHS Best Buddies Club is scheduled for Tuesday.
The club was recently reinstated following the pandemic’s impact on the initiative.
Based in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the Best Buddies Club Resource Fair at Pittsfield High School on Tuesday underscored the significance of fostering connections.
Affiliated with the national nonprofit Best Buddies International, the organization is dedicated to eradicating the social, physical, and economic isolation faced by 200 million individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Embracing differences and accepting individuals without judgment is crucial, as highlighted by Analeese Matos, a PHS senior and the club President.
Comprising approximately 30 general education students and 20 students with disabilities, the school’s Best Buddies Club convenes biweekly for diverse activities like arts and crafts, sports, and more to cultivate an inclusive environment.
High school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to explore various careers and businesses at a career fair, gaining insights into post-graduation paths.
However, some special education students may find the fair overwhelming, hindering their attendance.
Upon graduation, these students often face uncertainty regarding their future steps, lacking the necessary resources or guidance.
The resource fair aims to equip them with essential information and guidance for a smoother transition post-high school.
Representatives from ServiceNet expressed enthusiasm about participating in the resource fair to raise awareness about available opportunities, as stated by Vice President of Vocational Programs Shawn Robinson.
The event serves as a platform for individuals to discover a wide range of opportunities, from college programs to vocational training, fostering a supportive environment for both individuals with disabilities and general education students.
Recognizing the importance of post-graduation resources within the community, Assistant Director of Community Support Kimberly Sorensen emphasized the significance of accessible support systems for individuals with disabilities.
The resource fair not only benefits students with disabilities by showcasing available resources but also provides valuable insights for general education students considering future career paths, as highlighted by Kaylee Persico, Assistant Director of Independent Services at UCP of Western Mass.
Collaborating with special education teachers, Matos curated a selection of organizations and resources to best support students’ needs post-graduation.
Various organizations, including United Cerebral Palsy of Western Mass., Berkshire County Arc, MassHire, the Berkshire Athenaeum, and Servicenet, among others, participated in the fair to showcase post-graduation resources.
The Best Buddies Club fosters lasting friendships and enables students to connect with peers they might not typically interact with, promoting inclusivity and understanding among students.
Former club leader and culinary teacher Todd Eddy emphasized the club’s role in celebrating diversity and highlighting the similarities that arise from embracing differences.
Established over 12 years ago, the high school’s Best Buddies Club advocates for equity, compassion, companionship, and relationships, embodying the values of human kindness.
Following a hiatus during the pandemic, the club was reignited by Matos, who reintroduced the program after recognizing the importance of inclusivity within the workforce.
Through her efforts, Matos revived the Best Buddies Club as part of her Portrait of a Graduate project, which aims to prepare students for their post-high school endeavors by fostering competencies such as responsibility, global citizenship, critical thinking, and effective communication.
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