Team Dixon will host its annual Buddy Bash from 3 to 6 p.m. Sept. 6. Hosted at 4640 Midway Road in Vacaville, the private event honors the teen volunteers, called “buddies,” who support children and adolescents with special needs throughout the year. Photo courtesy of Team Dixon

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Team Dixon will host its annual Buddy Bash from 3 to 6 p.m. Sept. 6.

Hosted at 4640 Midway Road in Vacaville, the private event honors the teen volunteers, called “buddies,” who support children and adolescents with special needs throughout the year. According to Erica Hurtado, president of Team Dixon, the buddies are integral to the organization’s success.

“Half of what makes Team Dixon successful is the buddies who support their special needs friends,” Hurtado said. “They have busy schedules with school and sports, so we want to celebrate them so they know what they do matters.”

The event will include a barbecue, swimming, buddy prizes and the Buddy Relay Challenge, a team-based race inspired by the show “The Amazing Race.”

The event includes a barbecue, swimming, buddy prizes, games and the Buddy Relay Challenge, a team-based race inspired by the show “The Amazing Race.” Photo courtesy of Team Dixon

“We have buddies team up in a variety of games to win prizes,” Hurtado said. “We just kind of allow them to hang out and not have to be in charge of any of their special needs friends.”

While the Buddy Bash is not open to the public, Dixon teens interested in volunteering can apply online at teamdixon.org or through the Dream Team Club at Dixon High School. The club helps organize events and promotes the program on campus.

“Buddies need to be 12 or older,” said Hurtado. “There’s a club fair coming up at Dixon High School where applications will be available.”

For senior Jordin Callen, who has been a buddy for six years, the program has become a defining part of her high school experience.

“My favorite part about being a buddy is making new memories with all the special needs kiddos and making new friendships,” said Callen. “Throughout my time in Team Dixon, I have gained many lifelong friendships and wouldn't trade this experience for the world.”

Callen, who also plays flag football, basketball and softball, co-leads the Dream Team with fellow senior Ava Brady. Both will attend the Buddy Bash on Sept. 6.

While the Buddy Bash is not open to the public, Dixon teens interested in volunteering can apply online at teamdixon.org or through the Dream Team club at Dixon High School. The club’s co-leaders Jordin Callen and Ava Brady encourage any students interested to drop by during the club fair Sept. 10. Photo courtesy of Team Dixon

Brady joined Team Dixon in eighth-grade. Brady is currently involved with Future Farmers of America (FFA), played flag football and, outside of school, enjoys being outdoors. Brady loves hiking, fishing, hunting and camping.

According to Brady, joining Team Dixon has given her a new perspective.

“My buddy, Michael, has changed how I see things,” said Brady. “He's so resilient, even when his sensory issues make it tough for him to communicate and that’s really made me look at life differently.”

Callen and Brady encourage other students to get involved.

“If you are hesitant to join Team Dixon, don't be,” Callen said. “If you are worried about not being able to be here all the time, you can show up when you can.”

Said Brady, “It’s more than just a program; it’s like a family. I've made lifelong friends and meeting Michael has been the best part. He's taught me so much about autism and sensory issues, and he feels like a little brother to me now.”

For more information, visit teamdixon.org, follow Team Dixon on Facebook or email [email protected].