We often ask members of our PALS Family "Why PALS?" to learn how our mission has impacted their lives. This month, we heard from PALS Participants, Cote and Arjun, during their time at PALS Boston. They shared why PALS has impacted them this summer and how they formed a meaningful friendship last week as they were paired together.

Dear PALS Family,

Arjun: Coming into PALS Boston, Cote and I didn't know each other, but we came with an open mind and became close friends. I first heard about PALS from Joey, a Program Lead for PALS Boston, who expressed how fun the program is. My favorite part of the week was when Cote and I went to the Boston Public Gardens. It was fun to share a place that is local to Boston and that my family and I visit together.

Cote: PALS is important to all of us. This week, I learned about respect and changed attitudes. My attitude changed a lot.

Arjun: The mission of PALS is important to me because PALS changes the norms of how individuals with Down syndrome are treated. PALS drives inclusion by pairing participants with and without Down syndrome together during the week.

Cote: I am speechless right now! I love PALS!

Arjun: PALS has put inclusion at the center of the week and I am so happy to be involved. I have learned the power of inclusion and how others can change my perspectives through this experience.

PALS Love,
Arjun & Cote