Regina Archbishop honours staff and students role in Best Buddies program

On Monday, March 21st, 2011 the Dr. Martin LeBoldus chapter gathered together during last period to welcome a very special guest, the Most Reverend Daniel J. Bohan, Archbishop of Regina.

The students at Dr. Martin LeBoldus High School in Regina have long been part of the Best Buddies program, promoting inclusion and creating friendships, since 2004, becoming one of the strongest chapters of the nation-wide program. And this is due in no small part to the hard work of JoAnne Gelowitz, a staff member at the school.

“JoAnne has helped make our program at LeBoldus exceptional,” said Steven Pinnock, Executive Director of Best Buddies Canada. “The strength of our program relies on the dedication of our volunteers, and JoAnne has acted as a shining example of a very dedicated teacher.”

During the ceremony to honour JoAnne Gelowitz, the Archbishop of Regina shared a wonderful story emphasizing the importance of friendship and inclusion. He also applauded the LeBoldus chapter members for their dedication, and commitment to the Best Buddies program, stating on CTV Regina “the program is making a difference.”

Gelowitz recently moved from the school’s Special Education Department to become the school’s Foods teacher. But they are thankful for her years of great support and service helping teenagers with intellectual disabilities.