Maci Miller (pictured right) is a senior at Valley High School and joined Best Buddies this year and Adam Jarachi (pictured left) is a sophomore. Maci and Adam were matched this year as they were both new to Best Buddies and have become great friends. Maci is moving onto college, but her motivation to join Best Buddies was to be more involved in her school community and to meet new friends that she has not had the opportunity to interact with before. Adam’s motivation to join was to play games and talk to all his friends.

Throughout the year, Maci and Adam created lasting memories. One of Maci’s favorite moments from Best Buddies was from Unified Sports Day and getting to see everyone do all the activities and have so much fun. One of Adam’s favorite things about being in Best Buddies is playing sports with Maci, especially soccer and anything that has to do with running.

A special milestone in their friendship came when Adam asked Maci to be his best friend and excitedly told all his teachers and peers that she said yes. “It makes me so happy when he recognizes me in the halls and remembers my name,” Maci said.

As Maci prepares to leave for college, the two plan to stay in touch. Whether it is chatting about sports or meeting up during school breaks for a competitive race, their bond will continue beyond the school year. Adam will surely miss Maci as she moves onto her next journey in life, but he has a message to share with the community: “Get yourself a friend like mine – Maci. She makes me really happy,” he said with a big smile.

Their story is a heartwarming reminder of the power of inclusion, friendship, and the lasting connections formed through Best Buddies.