Slicker takes meaning of “Best Buddy” to the next level
October 28, 2015
As a freshman in 2012, Madeline Slicker, senior, had no idea her aspirations would shift so quickly from fashion to special education. As the international organization Best Buddies exposed Slicker to people who have “intellectual and developmental disabilities,” she “quickly fell in love with working and becoming close with [them].”
Slicker enjoys spending time with her buddies outside of school, doing things that she would do with her other friends. “Liz [Hacker, sophomore,] and I have gone bowling, shopping and out to lunch,” Slicker said. “She also came over to my house one night and we watched a movie and made funny videos while listening to music.”
“[Slicker] is super sweet! I have the best Best Buddy,” Hacker said.
According to Ms. Tess Tilley, special education teacher and Best Buddies advisor, “the authentic friendships [Slicker] has formed with her current, and former, buddy are special… and make her stand out as a leader.”
As Slicker has discovered from her time participating in Best Buddies, she was surprised to find how “mutually beneficial” it is. “People assume that only the buddy is getting something out of this organization when in reality I have gained so much from being a part of it. It is definitely a two-way street,” Slicker said.
Now as a senior, Slicker is president of the Best Buddies chapter at Homestead and plans to study special education next year at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She has also worked with the United States Tennis Association (USTA), spreading the game to wheelchair athletes and other populations.
“Best Buddies is an organization that brings people together with or without disabilities. It focuses on creating personal relationships and promoting the spirit of inclusion,” Slicker said.
Tammie Flanders • Oct 28, 2015 at 10:39 am
Why is this not offered at Steffen Middle school. I have asked this for my son since grade school, and I was told it’s only in select schools in the district. I was to understand this is a program offered all over.
Ellen Takerian • Oct 28, 2015 at 8:16 pm
This is offered in high school.
Stacey Murray • Oct 29, 2015 at 10:35 am
I agree! Both Lake Shore and Steffen could greatly benefit. My understanding is that the middle school chapter has to be sponsored and it costs a fair amount to get a chapter started. My opinion,There needs to be a push from parents too get the ball rolling and there needs to be a teacher willing to be the advisor.