Hunter Harvey teams with Best Buddies Maryland as celebrity ambassador

Best Buddies Maryland has announced that it has named Hunter Harvey as a Maryland celebrity ambassador. Harvey was the first-round pick of the Orioles in the June 2013 First-Year Player Draft. Harvey is currently rehabbing from a shoulder injury and with the Double-A Bowie Baysox.

Harvey recently filmed a public service announcement with Best Buddies Maryland and plans are underway for more engagement. He is passionate about helping those with special needs because his older sister, Whitney, was diagnosed at birth with Angelman Syndrome, a rare neuro-genetic disorder with characteristics that include developmental delay, lack of speech, seizures, and walking and balance disorders.

"My sister is one of my best friends and the bond we share means so much to me," said Harvey. "I am proud to partner with Best Buddies because I believe in their mission and understand how important it is to create opportunities and foster friendships for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities."

Best Buddies Maryland is a nonprofit whose mission it is to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In Maryland, Best Buddies serves 5,600 citizens with and without disabilities and impacts 56,000 citizens through eight signature programs.

"We are thrilled to have Hunter as part of our team and as part of our mission." said Vince Fiduccia, state director for Best Buddies. "I can't thank Hunter enough for his dedication to help people with IDD."