by Natalie Costello from WMDT 47 News:
Sunday, two Delaware organizations, the Boardwalk Buddy Walk and Best Buddies Delaware teamed up to host the first annual Dewey Beach 5K Run and Pancake Breakfast.
People came from near and far to show their support for The Best Buddies Delaware. The event was held to raise funds and educate others about the importance of providing enriching programs for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
"I truly believe in the organization of Best Buddies, it's brought so many kids at the High School together. It's friendships that last a lifetime," says Pam Johnson. Johnson is the advisor for Dover High School's Best Buddy Program.
Dennis Diehl, founder of Boardwalk Buddy Walk, works closely with students at Chimes, a Delaware organization that provides vocational and other types opportunities for people with disabilities.
Dennis is proud of all his students, especially Eddie Drake who is studying culinary arts.
"It makes my day, I come and watch these guys come in and out of the kitchen, it gives them such an appreciation that they are doing something meaningful... and watching Eddie smile. He makes me laugh all the time. It's a great day when Eddie shows up to work," says Dennis.
And Dennis was right, you can't help but smile when you are around Eddie. When asked what his favorite part was about cooking, he quickly replied, "Um...Spaghetti!"
And for high school senior Andrew Granda, a Best Buddies participant and avid cross country runner, it was today's 5K event that brings a smile to his face. ""I've been in a lot of 5K's, in fact, I've done cross county for three years and I am going to do it for my last year."
Sunday's fundraiser was more than just a 5K and pancake breakfast, it was a chance for Best Buddies Delaware to showcase some of the amazing talents and personalities of their participants.
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