Leah Greenich heads HF-L Best Buddies program. Photo provided by HF-M Rotary
It’s always a joy to meet people who live the Rotary mission. Rotary describes itself as a ˜global network” of more than a million problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.’
Well, Leah Greenich is doing just that. Recently, the HF-L senior came to the HF-M Rotary to raise awareness and seek support for the Best Buddies program. In her sophomore year, Leah worked with counselors and teachers to bring “Best Buddies” to HF-L. Leah says it’s all about inclusion.
In her words: “Inclusion is an important part of the future. Advocating is the best way to spread inclusion throughout our community and world. There are many ways you can advocate, from just being more inclusive in your daily life to joining an inclusive club or organization.”
Best Buddies is an organization that pairs one-to-one friendships between those with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities, helps promote job and independent living placements, and promotes inclusion. Through Best Buddies, we host fun activities and events for everyone, advocate for all individuals, and fundraise to support our mission. Our goal is to provide a place where everyone is accepted and everyone is welcome.
If you are interested in joining Best Buddies or another inclusive organization, reach out to these organizations: Bestbuddies.org or Specialolympics.org or Rochesteraccessibleadventures.org
Leah plans to attend Nazareth College in the fall to study inclusive childhood education and psychology. She is also a coach for Special Olympics, organized the ‘Flutes and Flowers’ for residents at Pinehurst, and ‘Bowling for Breast Cancer’ to raise money for the Breast Cancer Coalition.
