Best Buddies in Kentucky proudly celebrated an incredible evening of inclusion, generosity, and impact at our 2024 Champion of the Year Gala, where Mark Pfeiffer was named Kentucky’s 2024 Champion of the Year.

Champion of the Year is a competitive fundraising initiative that unites community leaders in support of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Over the course of several months, candidates build teams, host events, engage their networks, and raise critical funds to advance the mission of Best Buddies Kentucky. The campaign not only generates financial support, but also raises awareness about the importance of friendship, leadership development, and inclusive opportunities in schools, workplaces, and communities across the Commonwealth.

Mark demonstrated extraordinary passion and commitment throughout the campaign, raising over \$55,000 to support statewide Best Buddies programs. His leadership inspired friends, colleagues, and community members to invest in a future where individuals with IDD are fully included and valued. Beyond the impressive fundraising total, Mark’s efforts helped elevate conversations around belonging, dignity, and opportunity.

Mark’s dedication to inclusion extends far beyond this campaign. Through his involvement with Wiggle Wow, he actively supports meaningful employment opportunities for members of the disability community. Wiggle Wow’s commitment to hiring and empowering individuals with disabilities reflects the same values that drive the work of Best Buddies — creating pathways to independence, confidence, and purpose.

The gala evening featured heartfelt mission moments, inspiring friendship stories, and an outpouring of generosity from supporters who believe deeply in inclusion. We were especially grateful for the support of Mark’s mission partners, Layla and Brayden, whose encouragement and dedication played an important role in his success.

Because of Mark, his mission partners Layla and Brayden, and all of our 2024 candidates, Best Buddies in Kentucky continues to expand programs that change lives every day — strengthening friendships, developing leaders, and building communities where everyone belongs.