The Best Buddies Palm Beach Champion of the Year Gala was an incredible success, raising over $537,000. We are thrilled to announce Juliet Warner, alongside her Mission Partner, Kate Warner, were named the Palm Beach Grand Champion for this event. Juliet and Kate raised over $288,000 for Best Buddies in Palm Beach, FL. Not only did they raise the most funds in the state, but they also became the National Top Champion of the Year for Best Buddies, achieving the highest fundraising amount for a Champion of the Year across the entire country.

Juliet Warner’s connection to Best Buddies is not symbolic—it is personal, daily, and deeply woven into her family life. Juliet’s sister-in-law has Down syndrome and lives with her family much of the time. She is not viewed as an “extra” or an obligation, but lovingly referred to as Juliet’s fifth child.

Through this relationship, Juliet has seen firsthand the power of inclusion, advocacy, and unconditional belonging. Best Buddies represents what Juliet already knows to be true: that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve not only support, but friendship, visibility, and full participation in the world around them.

Juliet is motivated by love, responsibility, and a deep sense of purpose. Supporting Best Buddies is her way of helping create a world where people like her sister-in-law are celebrated for who they are—not limited by a diagnosis. She embodies the mission through action, compassion, and an unwavering belief in dignity and values.

Juliet’s involvement with Best Buddies has grown naturally from her lived experience. She has participated in events over the years, supporting prior champions. As a storyteller and community leader, Juliet has introduced Best Buddies to audiences who may not have otherwise encountered the organization or its mission.

Her engagement goes beyond participation—it is relational. Juliet invites others in, educates through example, and helps shift perspectives by normalizing inclusion within family life, community spaces, and everyday conversations. This sustained and heartfelt involvement is what led to her nomination as Champion of the Year.

Juliet approached her fundraising campaign with authenticity and heart. Rather than presenting it as a transactional ask, she shared her personal “why”—centered on her sister-in-law, her family, and the belief that inclusion changes lives.

She involved friends, family, and her broader community, inviting them to be part of a mission that feels close to home. What made her efforts stand out was the emotional connection she created. People didn’t just donate; they felt invested. She said one of the best feelings was looking out at the crowd during the gala and seeing her community all there in support of the mission.

Juliet’s campaign was extraordinary because it reflected the spirit of Best Buddies itself: genuine connection, shared humanity, and the belief that when we choose inclusion, everyone benefits. Her leadership shows how one person’s personal story can inspire collective action and lasting impact.

Best Buddies International is excited to honor Juliet as the National Top Champion throughout the year, showcasing her incredible dedication to the organization and its mission. The support from Juliet’s entire family and community has been invaluable, and Best Buddies is deeply grateful for it. Thanks to the funds raised, Best Buddies will continue to transform lives and foster a more inclusive Florida for everyone.