Finding joy and friendships with our neighbors with disabilities

Our neighbors in Tennessee who have an intellectual or developmental disability are full of life and often looking for opportunities to have fun and connect. And who isn’t!?

Today we’re talking with members of Backlight Productions and Best Buddies, two organizations dedicated to building bridges and friendships, and having fun with people of all abilities. We’ll also learn about a new mentoring program, Eunies Buddies,for caregivers and an online tool, Ask Stella Now, that makes finding resources for anyone with a disability easier. Join us!

Today’s episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys.

GUESTS

• Melissa Smith, CEO Backlight Productions
• Fernanda Aguilar, Backlight Productions performer, Best Buddies participant
• Zack Wood, Backlight Productions performer, Best Buddies participant
• Zack McCann, Backlight Productions performer, Best Buddies participant
• Kara Jackson, Backlight Productions performer, Best Buddies participant
• Elise Cofer, Deputy Director, Eunies Buddies Tennessee of Best Buddies
• Dave Krikac, founder The Gear Foundation, developed Ask Stella Now

FURTHER LISTENING

• Ask Stella Now, Special Needs Concierge
• This Is Nashville | Special Olympics Tennessee offers year-round programs to participants
• This Is Nashville | Navigating into adulthood with disabilities