Honorary Chair And News Anchor Karen Adams

On Thursday, November 18, 2010, Best Buddies Rhode Island held its First Annual Celebration of Friendship, a cocktail reception fundraiser at the Botanical Gardens at Roger Williams Park. The elegant evening featured Honorary Chair and news anchor Karen Adams and the music of Eric French & Mr. Hyde. They were joined by over 100 donors and supporters from the local community including individuals from Edwards, Angell, Palmer, & Dodge, the Champion of Inclusion sponsor.

Pictured L-R: Ms. Emily Foster of Wrentham and Michaela Turner of Rehoboth, MA Best Buddy Pair from Celebration of Friendship Providence College Best Buddies Chapter

Guests enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and desserts while viewing the spectacular auction items which included New York City Getaways, Boston weekends, and a Tom Brady autographed football!  Florida Vacation raffle tickets were a hot item!

The guest speakers were Miss Emily Foster and Miss Michaela Turner, a Buddy Pair from the Providence College Best Buddies chapter.  Their touching and heartwarming speeches were the highlight of the evening as each young lady spoke about their mutually enriching friendship.  They received a standing ovation from the audience.  

Artwork from Top Drawer Art at The BRASS, a nonprofit visual arts center providing art programs for adults with developmental disabilities, was on display and guests were able to bid on artwork by several of the artists.

Proceeds from the evening’s event will support Best Buddies programs in middle schools, high schools, and colleges throughout Rhode Island.  Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information please visit: www.bestbuddiesrhodeisland.org.