We are the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
One-to-One Friendships
Integrated Employment
Leadership Development
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“Picture your best friend. Now imagine your life without that person. For people with developmental disabilities, the laughter and excitement of a best friend is only a dream. Best Buddies is a lifeline to the joy of having and being a friend.”
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“All of us need to open our minds and consider people with IDD as qualified, dependable employable candidates. These individuals are dedicated, skilled workers whose involvement in the workforce is relevant for all society.”
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“Best Buddies gives people with special needs a chance to speak up, be heard and advocate for themselves and others within their community.”
Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant international organization that has grown from one original chapter at Georgetown University to more than 2,300 chapters worldwide, positively impacting the lives of over 1.1 million people with and without IDD. Best Buddies programs engage participants in each of the 50 United States, and in over 50 countries around the world.
