Editor’s note: This originally printed in our Spanish publication, Sol del Valle, and was translated for our English readers.
On Saturday night, Nov. 9, TACAW (The Arts Center at Willits) was elegantly transformed to welcome more than 200 attendees at the much-anticipated “Boots & Buddies” dance.
Best Buddies, a global nonprofit organization, has been operating in the Roaring Fork Valley for two years. Its mission is to promote inclusion and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities while creating opportunities for leadership and volunteering.
In March of 2023, Best Buddies hosted its first inclusive community dance, called “Starry Night Prom,” which brought together approximately 100 attendees. This year, participation doubled, with over 200 people, including families, youth and adults from Parachute to Aspen, joining the cowboy-themed “Boots & Buddies” event.
During the evening, Michelle Stiller, Best Buddies’ area director, took the stage to express her gratitude, proclaiming, “We are here to stay in this valley,” which was received with warm applause.
In an interview with Sol del Valle, Stiller explained, “At a typical dance, you need a partner. Here, you come with your family, parents, caregivers or grandparents; everyone is welcome. For parents, it’s a chance to connect with others in a similar situation.”
Zacarías and Juana, parents of Isaac and Abraham, shared their joy in seeing their children participate at a Best Buddies event again. Juana remarked, “It’s important for them to have an event designed just for them because otherwise, we don’t take them to other dances.” As her younger son enjoyed the music, she added, “They love it when people greet and acknowledge them.”
The night was filled with joy and surprises, with laughter and radiant faces all around. Guests enjoyed a complete experience with a 360-degree camera by Okim Photobooth of Aspen and food sponsored by The Little Nell, New York Pizza, Zane’s and Clark’s Market. The evening began with music by DJ Swaytone and included a lively “line dancing” class led by Dakota Severe.
Stiller added, “The community of people with disabilities here is truly special. Best Buddies brings everyone together, from WindWalkers to Cook Inclusive — it’s like an umbrella embracing these special occasions.”
Bebe Konikowski, who traveled from Summit County and works at Summit Middle School in Frisco, shared, “Every parent wants their child to be invited to birthday parties, to be included, to have friends and to be happy. Every child deserves that, and this is also an opportunity for neurotypical children to learn how to interact with peers with disabilities.” Konikowski expressed interest in seeing the impact of Best Buddies firsthand and hopes to bring the program to Summit County.
Riley Hutchens, mother of Ivy, spoke tearfully as she watched her daughter enjoy the night. “It gives me hope for her future, knowing she’s surrounded by people who love and care for her,” she said emotionally. “These are my people, and when I’m in the community, I will always care for and look out for their children.”
The evening concluded with a performance by Tristan Trincado, a singer and guitarist. Trincado, a Basalt High School student, took up guitar after suffering a traumatic brain injury from multiple motorcycle accidents. His music drew participants to the stage, eliciting smiles and moving the crowd to the rhythm of his melodies.
Hutchens reflected, “It makes you see the beauty and kindness in people and realize there are wonderful people out there.”
As one of the largest volunteer movements globally, Best Buddies invites the community to get involved in its events or sponsor activities. Whether it’s offering hot chocolate and cookies at your business or providing a space for Buddies’ activities, everyone is encouraged to join this movement of inclusion and support.
For more information, visit www.bestbuddies.org/colorado or follow them on social media at “Best Buddies RFV.”
