In the heart of Napoleon, Ohio, a wonderful partnership has been forming between the Ram Radicals and the Filling Home, creating a tradition that has touched the lives of many. This partnership began in 2016, when the Filling Home was looking for an activity for their residents during Presidents Day—a day when most local programs are closed, leaving residents with limited options for engagement. This need started the annual Buddy Bowling event.
The Begining of Buddy Bowling
The event was made possible through the efforts of Nancy Wiechers, then the Human Resource representative at the Filling Home. Nancy’s connection to the Ram Radicals—her grandchild being a member—paved the way for this collaboration. Recognizing the Ram Radicals' eagerness for volunteer opportunities, Nancy reached out and started a tradition that has only grown each year.
Initially held on Presidents Day, the event has since been moved to the same week to accommodate more participants.
A Growing Community Celebration
The Buddy Bowling event has blossomed into a large community event. The Filling Home had 28 of the 40 residents come together, joining 150 people at the local bowling alley. This year, the event went even larger to include participants from the Filling Home Community Center, Defiance Active Day, Core Residential in Napoleon, the WOW Program, and Trinity Place in Williams County.
During the event, 201 games were bowled. Each lane was shared by two high school students from Ram Radicals, who helped support the participants. Sarah Jackson, the Volunteer Coordinator at the Filling Home, noted the excitement and joy this event brings to the residents. "The lights, the noise, and pizza for lunch are all new experiences for them," she said. Transporting all the residents required ten vans, underscoring the scale and enthusiasm surrounding this event.
Bridging Communities and Breaking Barriers
The Buddy Bowling event is more than just a day of fun; it’s an opportunity for integration and understanding. Sarah Jackson emphasizes the event's role in treating residents like everyone else and promoting their inclusion in the community. At the event, high school volunteers are often asked to reflect on their perceptions before and after engaging with the residents. This reflection fosters empathy and breaks down misconceptions, as noted by Dryden White, a junior at Tinora High School and President of Ram Radicals. "There's a lot of stereotypes and thoughts about this being awkward," he shared. "You realize they're not much different from youth like me. They still have the same feelings and emotions, and it's actually really easy to bond with them."
Celebrating Inclusivity During National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities and celebrating their contributions to society. The Buddy Bowling event aligns perfectly with the goals of DDAM, highlighting the importance of community involvement and the joy of shared experiences.
Opportunities for the Future
Sarah Jackson points out that the Filling Home offers numerous summer job opportunities, especially for those interested in healthcare careers. They even provide aid jobs to young students under 18, making it an excellent starting point for aspiring nurses and caregivers.
As the Ram Radicals continue to support and uplift their community through events like Buddy Bowling, they embrace the spirit of inclusion and compassion. Their efforts not only enrich the lives of the Filling Home residents but also leave a lasting impact on the volunteers who participate, shaping a more understanding and connected community.
