Local John Hancock Network firm Independence Financial Partners recently contributed more than $15,000 to Best Buddies Rhode Island, after participating in the Hyannis Port Best Buddies Challenge.

Recently, 10 employees teamed up to ride their bikes or run through the New England countryside to benefit Best Buddies, a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“At our firm, we believe it is important to make a difference,” said managing partner Richard Beaulieu, one of the runners. “Each year we’ve increased our fundraising efforts and we direct all of our donations to Best Buddies Rhode Island, which supports 22 chapters in middle schools, high schools and colleges in Rhode Island.”

With eight employees on bikes and two on their feet, together the group rode 600 miles and ran 10 kilometers from Boston to Hyannis Port. •