In 2025, our Citizens Adult Friendship program experienced tremendous growth! We now have built a community of 316 participants and 39 active matches.

The Citizens program fosters meaningful friendships between adults with and without IDD across Boston, Greater Boston, Worcester, Western Massachusetts, the South Shore, and Cape Cod. Many people with IDD have limited opportunities for social interactions after they leave the school environment. This program helps people with IDD become part of mainstream society and creates an inclusive and diverse community for all.

This year in MA and RI, we hosted a variety of events, including holiday theme parties, karaoke nights, paint outings, Red Sox games, beach days, and more. Through both one-to-one matches and group activities, countless new friendships were formed.

One of our new matches this year is Blythe and Sarah, who met at a group event and quickly connected.

“Sarah has been very nice. We talk and do things together. I enjoy my time with her,” says Blythe.

If you’re 18 or older and looking to make new friends, we invite you to join our Citizens program! We welcome adults with and without IDD to participate in one-to-one matches and group events that build lasting friendships. Please fill out an application here or reach out to BBMARI@BestBuddies.org for more information.

See a glimpse into our Citizens program here!