Leadership Development

“My name is Tim Rosario and I am from Somerset. I joined Best Buddies at Somerset Berkeley High School in 2017. I am a Buddy Director for my high school chapter and a Best Buddies Ambassador. Best Buddies has changed my life completely.

I now have lots of friends between school and my college program. I am a very confident, social, and athletic person who likes to communicate by talking on the phone, posting things to Facebook, and proving my independence to others.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Best Buddies Leadership Conference (BBLC) and participate in the Friendship Walk. I was nervous to attend this event but my Program Manager, Pam, pulled me aside and calmed me down. After that pep talk, I had lots of fun and enjoyed my experience there. While at BBLC, I met so many wonderful people and they all made me feel very comfortable.

As an Ambassador I want to educate my peers about Best Buddies so that they have the opportunity to join this organization and do what I am doing today. During BBLC, there was a speech presented by Best Buddies Ambassador by Jack Mayor that changed my life forever. I don’t want to see anyone with autism feel the way Jack did before he joined Best Buddies. I want to bring others to Best Buddies so that it can change their lives too.

Joining Best Buddies can help you form meaningful friendships and secure a great job that you love and enjoy. My peer buddy Zoe and I meet once a month and she’s always reaching out to me to do fun things. She is busy with school but we try to meet at least once a month to go out to eat or to watch a movie together. It feels good to be friends with her.

I didn’t know about Best Buddies until last year. Since then, I’ve had the chance to attend Leadership Conference, participate in the Friendship Walk, and to receive a signed Tom Brady football. I have a true love in my heart for Best Buddies. This organization has changed my life for the better and I think everyone should consider joining Best Buddies because it will change your life too.”