Panthers tight end joins lifelong friend who lives with Down syndrome for ‘Best Buddies’ walk

CHARLOTTE — Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble has been a vocal advocate for the organization “Best Buddies,” which encourages inclusion and friendships for those living with intellectual disabilities. The organization is dear to his heart because one of his lifelong friends lives with Down syndrome.

The area’s chapter of the organization held a friendship walk on Saturday at Symphony Park around 10 a.m., and Tremble was in attendance with his childhood friend Eric Habelow, who flew to Charlotte for the event.

Tremble said his connection with Habelow led to his interest in the Best Buddies organization.

“I was really excited to do this event... I think it’s something that a lot of people don’t realize isn’t a hard thing to do. It isn’t hard to just make a friend and talk to them, and I think Best Buddy really embodies that,” said Tremble.

Organizers said the goal of these events is to encourage inclusion and friendships for those with intellectual disabilities.

Nicole Tepper also attended the event, where The David and Nicole Tepper Foundation donated $150,000 for job training within the organization.

(WATCH BELOW: Panthers tight end life-long friendship with young man who lives with down syndrome)

Panthers tight end life-long friendship with young man who lives with down syndrome

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