Congratulations to our Graduated Seniors 

In May, we celebrated the graduation of six Little Buddies who have spent a total of 48 years with their Big Buddies! Four of these individuals received scholarships from the Buddy Program, as well as a laptop computer (thanks to Vlad  Enache of The Upper Ranch Company). In addition to congratulating these Little Buddies on their accomplishments, we also want to thank their Big Buddies for their time and dedication to their Little Buddy over the years. We know your relationship will not end with high school graduation! Congratulations to: Morgan K & Michele Dechant, paired for 9 years, Yessy C and Karen Silverman, paired for 4 years, Patsy C. and Lindsay Lofaro, paired for 7 years, Tito D. and Palmer Hood, paired for 8 years, Johanna S. and Kate Leonard, paired for 6 years and Randi G. and Virginia Betty, paired for 12 years!

 

      

Pictured: Tito D.& Palmer Hood, Morgan Kimmel & Jessica C., Patsy C., Virginia Betty & Randi G. (Not pictured: Yessy C. & Karen Silverman and Johanna S. & Kate Leonard)

Congratulations as well to all of our Peer-to-Peer Big Buddies who graduated this year. Special congratulations to Lucy S. of Aspen High School and Abby K. of Basalt High School who were awarded continuing education scholarships based on their outstanding service as Big Buddies.

             

Pictured: Lucie S. and Abby K.

In early June, six Buddy pairs joined us for three days of adventure, challenges, goal setting, confidence building, fun, and lots of laughter at the Outward Bound campus in Leadville, CO. This amazing trip would not have been possible without the generous support of Outward Bound, who provided scholarships for all of the Little Buddies who attend, and the Harris Foundation who provided underwriting for the overall expenses. The weather could not have been more perfect, with crystal clear skies and 75 degree temperatures.  Big and Little Buddies pushed themselves out of their comfort zones, and embraced the challenges with which they were presented.  As Buddy pairs, our Big and Little Buddies learned more about themselves, and their Buddy through teambuilding activities, rock climbing, a high ropes course, fun discussions, and games.  Each Buddy Pair had their own struggles, and overcame them together. In the closing ceremony, Little Buddies shared their favorite memories with their Big Buddies, which left most of the group in tears.  The Buddy Pairs that attended learned skills that will help them continue to grow closer as a pair and will help build their self-esteem. 

• Are prouder of the things that they do
• Know how to solve problems better
• Like to try new things
• Feel safe, supported, and encouraged by their friends
• Are more comfortable talking about their feelings

Join Us for ArtAspen's OPENING PREVIEW PARTY
All proceeds will benefit the Buddy Program
Thursday, August 5th, 5pm - 8pm
$75 per person at the door
Aspen casual attire 
August 6th - 8th, ArtAspen will be hosting the first ever Fine Art Fair for Contemporary Art at the Aspen Ice Garden - an extraordinary event you will not want to miss!
 
Please join us and be the first to witness the widest selection of modern and contemporary art at the Opening Preview Party, with 100% of ticket sales benefiting the Buddy Program. While you peruse over $200 million of investment-level art, you will enjoy delicious food, wine and spirits. Network, socialize or simply attend to support our valley's leading mentoring organization. 
 
To purchase tickets for this exclusive preview party, please click here. If you missed Boogie's Bash for the Buddies, this is another great opportunity to support the Buddy Program and our community. We hope to see you there!