In 1973, the Buddy Program started as a small, grassroots effort to pair adults with kids in mentoring relationships. It has since grown into one of the largest youth-serving organizations in the Roaring Fork Valley, expanding from Aspen to Rifle over the course of time with four mentoring programs that benefit hundreds of participants annually.

Governed by a board of directors and advisory board, The Buddy Program also has a leadership development board (LDB) comprised of young professionals whose roles are to help recruit Big Buddies and fund raise. The LDB hosted a Summer Kick-off Friendraiser on June 9 at the home of Adam and Katie Goldsmith. As a precursor to this weekend’s Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, the reception was set in their backyard at the base of Aspen Highlands, featuring wine and spirits tastings with passed appetizers from European Catering. More than 50 guests attended, hearing from the LDB members about the program’s mission to empower youth through mentoring experiences as a way of achieving their full potential.

Visit http://www.buddyprogram.org to learn more about becoming a Big Buddy or to get involved with upcoming summer events including the 36th Annual Boogie’s Buddy Race on the 4th of July presented by East Coast Asset Management Mike Connolly, or the Bash for the Buddies on July 8.

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