2023: The Year of Inclusion Feb 23, 2023 | California News | Translate Content 2023 - here we go! The year is already off to a magnificent start! With your help, we've been making strides toward building a more inclusive California. In a few short weeks, we've opened four new friendship chapters, hosted three in-person Citizens events, and placed one individual with IDD in an integrated employment opportunity through our Jobs programs. Help us keep this momentum going by kicking off the new year with buddies by your side! We have a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit your interest and availability. To learn more, click the button below to email our team about what volunteer opportunities would be best for you. Give the gift of inclusion this year by getting involved! EMAIL US TO VOLUNTEER Super Supporters Maddie Glenn (LA) & Vesna Vasich (SD) Volunteer of the Month Meet our first volunteer of the month in 2023 – Maddie! Maddie has been involved with Best Buddies for four years. She has served as a speech coach since 2019, and this will be her second year as a member of the Friendship Walk Committee in LA. Maddie’s favorite Best Buddies memory is when her brother with IDD came out from Chicago to attend an LA Citizens event and participate in the Friendship Walk! Ambassador of the Month Vesna has gone above and beyond throughout 2022, which secured her spot as the January Ambassador of the Month! Every month, she works on creating birthday cards to send to Best Buddies supporters throughout the state. She signs over 50 cards a month and does so with a BIG smile on her face! Get Involved with Best Buddies Upcoming Volunteer Orientation Do you want to learn more about Best Buddies and how to get involved? Join our volunteer orientation to learn about our mission, programs, and local volunteer opportunities. Plus, you'll meet other individuals interested in making an impact! February 15th from 5:00 pm - 5:30 pm Email us to get signed up STAY UP TO DATE! Best Buddies International 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, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). bestbuddies.org/california Best Buddies International Headquarters 100 SE 2nd St., Ste. 2200, Miami, FL 33131 | 1-800-89 BUDDY