In this inspiring episode of the Move the Ball podcast, host Jen Garrett sits down with Marty Postlethwait, founder of the Shadow Buddies Foundation. Celebrating 30 years of making a difference, Marty shares the heartfelt story behind the organization’s creation, its global impact on children and families facing medical challenges, and the power of perseverance in building a mission-driven nonprofit. Listeners will hear about the foundation’s signature programs, the role of athlete ambassadors, and advice for anyone looking to start their own impactful journey.
Episode Highlights:
- The Origin of Shadow Buddies [14:30]
Marty shares the emotional story of how her son’s medical journey inspired the creation of Shadow Buddies, and how the first buddy was made to help children feel less alone. - 30 Years of Impact & Milestones [3:00]
Marty and Jen discuss the foundation’s growth from four condition-specific buddies to over 40, distributing millions worldwide, and what the 30th anniversary means to Marty. - Athlete Partnerships and Community Support [14:41]
Marty highlights the pivotal role of professional athletes like Tony Gonzalez in championing the cause, expanding the foundation’s reach, and creating memorable experiences for children. - Signature Events and Programs [21:00]
Marty describes unique programs like the Birdies, Bogey, and Buddies golf tournament, Pink Parties, and the Magical Flight to the North Pole, illustrating the foundation’s creative approach to bringing joy to children and families.
The Shadow Buddies Foundation, founded in 1995 by Marty Postlethwait, is a nonprofit dedicated to providing emotional support, comfort, and education to children and adults facing illness, disability, or medical treatment. At the heart of the foundation are condition-specific “Buddy” dolls—over 40 designs that give patients a friend “just like me” to ease fear and promote resilience. With more than 2.5 million Buddies distributed across 50 states and 21 countries, the foundation has touched countless lives through programs like Pink Parties, Superhero Buddies, Summer Backpacks, and the Magical Flight to the North Pole.
Professional athletes including NFL Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez, Super Bowl champion Ryan Succop, and Indianapolis Colts cornerback T.J. Carrie have been champions of the mission, helping expand its reach and impact. Guided by the values of hope, courage, and joy, Shadow Buddies continues to inspire and uplift children and families worldwide, one Buddy at a time.
Connect with Shadow Buddies:
Website: https://www.shadowbuddies.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadowbuddies/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theshadowbuddiesfoundation
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-shadow-buddies-foundation/
IT'S TIME TO SHOW UP WITH CONFIDENCE, MAKE AN IMPACT, AND MOVE THE BALL:
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