The Spirit of Friendship Award is Best Buddies’ highest accolade presented to individuals who have shown a true spirit of friendship and generosity in supporting the organization’s mission of inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Honoring Best Buddies’ Global Ambassador Cindy Crawford at the 2022 Best Buddies Gala: Miami

Cindy Crawford was first introduced to Best Buddies in 1998 when she presented her dear friend Herb Ritts with the organization’s Spirit of Friendship Award. For more than 20 years, Cindy has served as an incredible advocate, genuine friend, and dedicated supporter of Best Buddies and its mission to create a more inclusive world for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Over the years, Cindy formed genuine friendships and bonds with many of our participants and their families and supported the organization with the launch and success of its annual Mother’s Day Celebration in Malibu, CA. She also introduced her celebrity friends to Best Buddies; many of whom have joined her in championing inclusion for people with IDD.

Best Buddies is incredibly grateful for Cindy Crawford’s commitment to our cause and thank her for making this world a better place for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.