Washington, D.C., April 2, 2024 — Sometimes, it’s simple friendships that best show the impact of the Best Buddies Friendship Program.

Izzy and Alex began their journey within the Friendship Program in Virginia and Washington, D.C. last year and were quickly matched in a one-to-one friendship thanks to their similarities. Izzy got involved in Best Buddies thanks to her sister’s participation in their local Best Buddies Friendship Walk, while Alex’s connection stemmed from a lifelong interest and a passion for the disability rights movement, ignited by experiences in high school and college. Alex eagerly embraced the opportunity to share her life and love with a friend like Izzy.

The duo finds joy in crafting activities like pottery painting and visits to local cafes.

“Painting pottery was my favorite,” Izzy recalled. “I got to paint something for Alex and it was cool to do. Alex is supportive, kind and amazing.”

Alex finds that her “lunch dates” with Izzy are her favorite parts of the friendship, where Izzy’s small gesture of sharing fries with her daughter left an indelible mark of kindness and warmth.

“We got Chick-fil-A for lunch, and both of my kids were with us,” Alex said. “My four-year-old daughter finished her lunch first and was waiting for us to finish so she could go into the play place. She was getting antsy, so Izzy surprised her with a fry. Her face lit up and she was so happy for that kind gesture.”

Their friendship is rooted in mutual respect, honesty and the comfort of knowing there’s someone to lean on and laugh with. As they navigate life together, Izzy and Alex are not just friends; they’re shining stars in each other’s lives, casting light on the beauty of companionship found through programs like Best Buddies.

“Izzy is thoughtful, kind and supportive,” Alex said. “She checks in with me randomly, even if we don’t have anything planned. That is the sign of a true friend.”

Click here to learn more about the Best Buddies Friendship Program. Click here to get involved with Best Buddies in Virginia and Washington D.C.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies^® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants in each of the 50 states and in 45 countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Media Inquiries
Best Buddies International
Nicole Maddox
Vice President, Communications
NicoleMaddox@Bestbuddies.org