As the founder of MasterCraft Builder Group and owner of Heritage Farms’ Tringali Barn, Chris Shee has long supported a variety of charitable causes, including Clays for a Cause and Concerts for a Cause. The impact of these fundraising efforts has raised over $1 million in the past decade, benefiting numerous organizations in the community.
It was especially touching, though, when Chris was recently honored with the Hometown Hero Award from Best Buddies, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) – including those with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, and other disabilities. Best Buddies’ programs empower these individuals and their families to overcome social, physical, and economic barriers by fostering friendships, job training, and independent living skills.
Chris was first introduced to Best Buddies Florida in 2002 through a friend whose daughter has Down syndrome. “Her joy and zest for life were magnetic, and her family has been truly blessed by the support of Best Buddies,” he recalled.
As a constant supporter of the Best Buddies organization, Chris hosted the Best Buddies Friendship Ball – a prom-like event – at the Tringali Barn, where 400 students came together for a memorable night. Not only did Chris and his team provide the venue with all the trimmings, but he also helped provide transportation, so more schools could participate – literally bringing the community together in ways it hadn’t before.
With nearly 400 chapters across the state, volunteers impact more than 111,000 people with opportunities to make fulfilling friendships, find rewarding employment, and make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.
Inspired to get involved? Visit Best Buddies Florida to learn more.