Best Buddies Delaware Raises over $50,000 for Inclusion!
On April 25, our community came together as we hosted the annual Friendship Walk at Frawley Stadium. With more than 350 participants in attendance, the event celebrated inclusion, friendship, and the ongoing mission to expand Best Buddies programs across Delaware. Participants of all ages and abilities walked and strolled side by side, raising funds and awareness to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities!
This year’s walk was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Christiana Care, Megan Aitken, New York Life Foundation, and Kelly Services. Their commitment to inclusion continues to make a lasting impact in our community. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community care partners, Wawa, Inc., Herr Foods Inc., Jimmy John’s, Wegmans Food Markets, Hard Bat Athletics, Michaels Stores, the Blue Rocks, and Vibe All Star and Mckean High School Cheerleaders, for helping create an engaging and welcoming atmosphere for all who attended.
We would also like to thank the many volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to ensure the event ran smoothly. Your efforts did not go unnoticed and were essential to the day’s success. Thank you to our mission speakers as well, Alyssa Kelsey and Amani Jackson.
Most importantly, we celebrate our schools and participants. This event is a reflection of your dedication, passion, and commitment to inclusion. Seeing the positive impact you continue to make in your communities is what the Friendship Walk is truly all about!!
Congratulations to our award winners: Volunteer of the Year David Eppler; Spirit of Friendship Terrie Namkung; Community Impact Christiana Care; Delaware Difference Maker Shannon Swankoski; Event of the Year Marbrook Elementary; Buddy Pair of the Year Londyn Everett and Jordyn Hosey; Rookie of the Year Smyrna High School; Chapter of the Year Appo High School; Advisor of the Year Holly Schnittger; and Chapter President of the Year Ethan Fink.
Together, we are building a more inclusive Delaware—one friendship at a time!
