Best Buddies: Basketball and Bags is an event held in McAfee gym on Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Best Buddies is an event held weekly where adults around the community come to McAfee Gym and play basketball.
Not only do they simply play basketball, but they also learn the game.
The participants learn how to dribble, shoot and learn how to play alongside each other.
The Best Buddies is a Registered Student Organization (RSO), run by Cori Hoekstra(president) and Margaret McNellis (vice president). The advisers are Jessica Zanton and Jennifer Stringfellow, with Secretary Christina Brasher and treasure Amanda Martin.
This group of people have formed a “wholesome and kind” organization sought out to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
Buddies are the volunteers who help the athletes with disabilities. They help out with simple things like passing a ball back and forth with the athlete, walking around with them and building a friendship.
Currently, there are eight buddies who help and with a growing RSO more volunteers are always wanted and welcomed.
The organization also has a coach and assistant coach for the athletes to properly teach them how to play basketball.
The buddies and teachers help the members keep them physically and mentally active.
Eastern offers opportunities for every student and this RSO is a way to get more involved in school life by aiding those who have struggles not many face.
Buddies do not need to have any prior requirements, just simply help out with whatever is needed and be someone to step in and help your buddy when needed .
Mackenzie Harrell can be reached at 581-2812 or at mdharrell@eiu.edu.
