The University of Delaware Best Buddies chapter recently hosted a special Bridging to Citizens celebration, honoring members who are taking the next step in the Best Buddies life cycle. The event brought together students, members with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), families, and friends to recognize the incredible friendships, leadership, and memories created throughout their time with the chapter.

Bridging to Citizens is an important milestone within Best Buddies. The program celebrates graduating college students and members with IDD as they transition from their school chapter experience into Best Buddies Citizens, the organization’s adult friendship and leadership program. It ensures that friendships, inclusion, and community connections continue long after graduation, giving members the opportunity to stay involved and connected for years to come.

This year’s celebration recognized seven graduating University of Delaware seniors for their dedication and impact within the chapter. In addition, six members with IDD officially bridged into the Citizens program, marking an exciting new chapter in their Best Buddies journey. The event served as both a farewell and a celebration of all they have accomplished together.

Throughout the evening, members reflected on their favorite memories, shared laughs, and celebrated the friendships that have made such a lasting impact on their lives. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, pride, and appreciation for the strong sense of community built within the University of Delaware chapter.

“Bridging to Citizens was such a meaningful and fun celebration for everyone involved. It was amazing to recognize our graduating seniors and members with IDD as they take this next step together. Watching these friendships continue beyond college is what Best Buddies is all about.” – Madison, University of Delaware Chapter President

The Bridging to Citizens celebration was a beautiful reminder that while one chapter may be ending, another is just beginning. The University of Delaware chapter is proud to celebrate these members as they continue their Best Buddies journey and remain part of a community built on friendship, inclusion, and support.