Micah Fitzgerald (pictured right) is a junior at Johnston High School and has been involved with Best Buddies since her freshman year of 2022. During Micah’s junior year she was matched with her buddy John Parker – AKA JP, a current sophomore (pictured left). Micah is the current Chapter Vice President at Johnston High School, and she wanted to join Best Buddies to make new friends and help others make friends!

This spring both Micah and JP completed their Best Buddies Ambassadorship during the Central Iowa Ambassador training. Micah is now a State Ambassador, and JP is also an Ambassador. Being an Ambassador or State Ambassador for Best Buddies means you are a leader and representative of the organization, helping to spread awareness, advocate for inclusion, and inspire others to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Both were trained in public speaking and leadership so they can share their personal stories and promote inclusion. This could be through speaking at schools, events, or fundraisers to raise awareness about the mission of Best Buddies.

One of Micha’s favorite moments about being a part of Best Buddies is that she and JP recently competed in a Special Olympics 4×100, and she loves when JP attends track practices and meets as the team manager as well. JP often calls himself the coach!

Micah’s message that she would like to share with others in the community about the importance of inclusion and friendship is that being different is what makes people fun to be around.

“Keeping being you and let your true friends find you! ,“ Micah shared.