My name is Madeline and I have been working with and caring for individuals with developmental disabilities for most of my life. As early as freshman year in high school I became involved with the Best Buddies club. This club is a non profit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership, and overall inclusion for those with intellectual disabilities. By sophomore year I became the president of this club and routinely ran events and became very involved with those who participated. Through this opportunity I obtained employment supporting a high school aged girl with Down syndrome. I spent 4-5 days a week with her teaching her life skills, engaging in enriching activities that she enjoyed, and providing her with any care she needed. Since then I have continued being involved with these families and thoroughly enjoy it. I hope to continue working with individuals with Intellectual disabilities on a consistent capacity.