The 2024 Champion of the Year Galas in California were nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing the power of advocacy and the collective dedication to inclusion. These events marked the culmination of 8-12 week campaigns where Champion candidates tirelessly fundraised, raised awareness, and advanced the mission of Best Buddies. Through their unwavering efforts, the Champions inspired their communities and made a lasting impact. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights and the remarkable achievements across the state.

What is Champion of the Year? Champion of the Year is a spirited competition that empowers individuals to further their advocacy for inclusion. Over the course of several weeks, candidates compete to raise funds and awareness for Best Buddies’ mission to create opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The journey culminates in a gala event that celebrates their accomplishments and highlights the transformative power of inclusion. At the gala, the individual that raises the most funds for our local programs is crowned the Grand Champion of Inclusion.

Event Highlights

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles gala celebrated an outstanding effort by Grand Champion Dana Schoppers, a Corporate Partner at Accenture. Dana raised over $29,000, contributing to the event’s impressive $122,000 total.

San Diego: In San Diego, longtime Chapter Advisor Meg Heidrick-Barnes led the way as Grand Champion, raising over $14,000. Her efforts helped the event reach a remarkable $91,000.

Bay Area: The Bay Area set a new standard with mega volunteer Ken Seto raising a astonishing $53,000, making him the state’s top fundraiser. The event brought in an impressive $232,000, surpassing its goal by 17%.

Sacramento: Advisory Board Member Danielle Christy took center stage as Grand Champion in Sacramento, raising over $39,000. The event’s total reached $87,000, showcasing the region’s dedication to the mission.

Altogether, these four galas raised nearly $535,000 to fuel Best Buddies’ life-changing programs. This success underscores the power of community, advocacy, and inclusion. Each dollar raised contributes to creating more opportunities for individuals with IDD to thrive in friendship, employment, and leadership.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to every Champion, donor, sponsor, and supporter who made these events possible. If you know someone who embodies inclusion and would make a great Champion, nominations for the 2025 Champion of the Year are now open. Together, let’s continue to build a more inclusive world!

To learn more or nominate a Champion, visit our website.