All kids like to have fun,
just to get together and hang out with friends. However, this is more difficult
for blind teens. To help teens overcome some of the obstacles they face and
afford them the same social opportunities their peers have we offer the Peer
Buddy Program.
The Mission Statement of the Peer Buddy Program is to pair adolescents, one sighted, one with a visual impairment to enhance the lives of both individuals. The interactions of both individuals will teach them social interaction skills, the growth in understanding of themselves and others, and the building of friendships through shared experiences and fun. Our vision is a year long program with ongoing events with the goal of the peer buddies meeting together at the Center as well as to take the friendship further by meeting independently.
This two-year-old program draws upon middle and senior high school students as well as college students from throughout Orange County. Students commit to a yearlong involvement. This includes both attending the monthly events at the Center as well as contacting their buddy during the month independently. Students determine the party themes, volunteer to be on a committee for event planning and choose their own buddy.
Some of the party themes we've had already include:
As the school year comes to an end we'll be plenty busy planning for the fall. If you know someone who would be interested in joining the Peer Buddy program please call our hotline and leave a message for Sharon Mitchael (714) 573-8888 extension 118 or email
[email protected].
Thank you.
