Hand-In-Hand Program
In 1974 the Hand-In-Hand Program was initiated and it continues today, more than 30 years later, to be one of the most unique programs in the nation. Delaware is one of the only states to have an All-Star program that pairs the high school participants with a young person with a intellectual disability. The success of the Hand-In-Hand Program has received great recognition and is a model for other fundraising and awareness building programs throughout the United States.
The Hand-In-Hand Program pairs one or more senior participants with a child with a intellectual disability. The Blue-Gold Committee sponsors planned activities such as parties, picnics and dances from February through Game Day in June. Participants are also encouraged to see their buddies on their own – go to a movie, play a game, take a walk – just do things that friends do together. The goal is to provide experiences that will be remembered for years to come. More than that, these activities help to build a bond between two friends and teach valuable lessons of diversity, awareness and acceptance. The Hand-In-Hand Program is the heart of the Blue-Gold experience.
The Blue-Gold All-Star Football Game Committee advisors for the Hand-In-Hand Program are Barbara and Winnie Spence.
