Together, Carl and Leslee have created ways to amplify the impressive community impact they make professionally. The couple has formed four charity runs, which have raised millions of dollars for youth programs, food banks, and hospitals on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. They include the Silicon Valley Turkey Trot, Santa Run Silicon Valley, the Heart & Soles 5k, and the Stars and Strides Community Run.
In addition to their own philanthropic endeavors, the entire Guardino family has also supported the global nonprofit Best Buddies for 15 years. The organization is dedicated to creating a more inclusive world for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injuries, and other disabilities.
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As a society, we tend to look away when we see people with IDD. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are incredibly special, and can make wonderful contributions to their communities when their talents and abilities are recognized.
- Carl Guardino
Through essential programs, Best Buddies creates opportunities for friendships, breaks down social barriers, and generates leadership development, employment, and inclusive living opportunities for a population that is often isolated and excluded from society. Currently, the nonprofit provides life-changing opportunities to nearly 100,000 people with and without IDD within the United States and across 47 countries worldwide.
Carl, formerly of Bloom Energy, learned about Best Buddies from a colleague. He was captivated by the organization's mission to connect people with and without IDD and immediately got involved by attending the annual Best Buddies Challenge cycling event held in California.
“As a society, we tend to look away when we see people with IDD. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are incredibly special, and can make wonderful contributions to their communities when their talents and abilities are recognized,” Guardino says.
Not long after the Guardinos began supporting Best Buddies, the family faced the worst loss of their lives. On February 7, 2008, their son, Immanuel, died at 20 weeks old from Trisomy 18. The chromosome disorder causes severe physical and intellectual disabilities.
Through their heartbreaking grief, the family realized they had two choices. “We could grow bitter, or we could grow better. We decided we wanted to grow better,” Guardino says. “We did our best to pour ourselves into an organization that helps people like Immanuel.”
They later adopted a daughter, Siena, and foster-adopted a son Jake, in whom they’re instilling the importance of community service and forming meaningful connections with people with IDD.
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By StoryStudio on August 20, 2022 11:19 AM
A Modern Family Striving to Make A Difference
It’s a simple yet profound truth; to overcome some of life’s toughest challenges, you need to rely on support from your community. Everyone needs someone at their side every mile to help climb the tallest mountains and guide them through every valley. A companion who's always there to encourage in times of doubt and celebrate every triumph. No family exemplifies the importance of both giving and receiving this support better than the Guardinos.
Carl and Leslee Guardino have a long history of investing their time, energy, and love into their community. Throughout his career, Carl has always pursued professional opportunities in public service, where he has championed for affordable housing, education, economic development, racial justice and equity, climate and clean energy, tech & innovation, and transportation reform.
Year after year, the Guardino family’s commitment to Best Buddies has been unwavering. They have raised over $1 million since 2009 in support of the organization through their involvement in the annual cycling event.
“The Best Buddies Challenge: California combines three essential elements ---It builds community, it emphasizes a healthy lifestyle, and it helps people in need,” Guardino says. Carl has served as the event’s Chair for many years and will hold the esteemed position again at this year’s Challenge on October 15.
If you are interested in joining the Guardinos as they support Best Buddies International, you can learn more about the organization and register for the Best Buddies Challenge: California by visiting www.bestbuddieschallenge.org.
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