An Incredible Year!

2021 has been a year for the records at Best Buddies in California. It is through your support that our programs and events have reached new heights! We are wishing you well this holiday season and hope you will feel inspired seeing the impact Best Buddies in California has made in 2021.

A Year in Review

We love our Volunteers

What is your favorite Best Buddies memory?

Out of all the amazing Best Buddies memories I've made this year, I would have to say my favorite one was my very first ambassador training, where I met my friend, Johny! We were paired together and had a great time thinking of ideas for his speech, writing it, and practicing it. We kept in touch after that training, and we've been friends (and a speech coach/ambassador duo) ever since.

How has Best Buddies impacted your life?

Best Buddies has honestly brought a light into my life. I love volunteering and meeting new people. The joy that everyone in this organization has is unmatched. I've made new friends, and it's incredible to know that I've impacted people's journeys in some way, whether that means I helped them get a job or advocate for themselves.

Amir is Living the Best Buddies Misson!

His supervisor was on board! He is thrilled to have even more responsibility around the office. He also served as the campaign manager for his colleague, Karl, in their campaign for Champion of the Year.

Over the years that Amir has participated in the Ambassador program, he has gained confidence in his public speaking skills. He has spoken at multiple Friendship Walk kickoff events for Holland & Knight and served on our Advisory Board this year. 2021 was a big year for Amir as he not only got engaged but also got married just last month!

Additionally, Amir has been matched in our Citizens program for almost a year. Here's what he's had to say about his experience in our citizen's program:

“I was matched with Andrew over a year ago. Andrew is very nice, patient, and friendly. We talk over zoom every other Tuesday about our week and what each of us is doing over the weekend. We also talk about movies and sometimes play games, such as Pictionary. What I appreciate about Andrew is that he likes movies and likes to travel. I appreciate my friendship with him by talking to him about movies, tv shows, and life in general.”

Thank you for making a difference in Amir's life through supporting Best Buddies!

Get Involved with Best Buddies

Do you want to learn more about Best Buddies and how to get involved? Join our October orientation! In just 30 minutes, you will learn about our mission, programs, and local volunteer opportunities. Plus, you'll get to meet other awesome individuals interested in making an impact!

December Volunteer Orientation
Wednesday, December 15th
5:00pm-5:30pm | Zoom

Should you have any questions, contact RichardNakai@bestbuddies.org.