Jessica and Patrick’s story is a remarkable example of how Best Buddies can change lives. Matched through the Best Buddies Citizens Program in Minnesota on December 10, 2020, after both wrote down each other’s names as their preferred match, the two quickly formed an unbreakable bond. Their friendship began on Zoom during the height of the pandemic, but even in those virtual spaces, Jessica says Patrick stood out:

“In a room full of lots of buddies, lots of peers, Patrick just always stood out to me. He was quiet, reserved, and really respectful. It captivated me to want to know who this person is, and to give him more of a seat at the table.”

What started as a shared love for Minnesota sports soon grew into a much deeper relationship. Together, they have cheered for the Vikings, the Wild, the Timberwolves, and the Twins, chatted about Marvel movies, enjoyed walks in nature, and celebrated life’s big and small moments.

“I think we love to go on walks just for the benefit of our health, but it’s a lot of chit-chat, right?” Jessica laughs. “He’s just the most dedicated friend, and to know that he’s always there—he will always make time for me.”

Their support for each other has touched every aspect of their lives. Patrick credits Jess for helping him land his job at UnitedHealthcare, where he prepares food, stocks beverages and silverware, and enjoys interacting with people every day.

“I wouldn’t have my job at UnitedHealthcare without Jess,” Patrick shares. “My bosses are Richard and Micah, and they’re great people to work for. They understand who I am.”

Best Buddies and Jessica helped Patrick build the skills and confidence to thrive at work, where he’s become more than an employee—he’s become part of a team and family.

Jessica and Patrick have celebrated many milestones together: Patrick cheered enthusiastically when Jessica ran the Twin Cities Marathon, even rescheduling a trip so he could support her in person. Jessica says, “As she ran by, she stopped and gave me the biggest hug ever. It made me feel special.” And when Jessica got married in 2023, Patrick wasn’t just a guest—he was honored as the greeter, making everyone feel welcomed. “He wasn’t just a wallflower, he was there, he made me feel loved,” Jessica remembers.

Through Best Buddies, they found more than friendship—they discovered confidence, new opportunities, a sense of belonging, and the joy of giving and receiving support. Patrick reflects,

“Jess is my superhero. She came in a difficult time in my life when I felt like I didn’t have any friends. She gave me support by being there for me during the difficult times. She is awesome, kind, caring, and very loyal.” Jessica adds, “I’ve never had such a dedicated friend like I do in Patrick.”

Their story shows how Best Buddies empowers people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities to connect in authentic, meaningful ways. Patrick shares, “Best Buddies has given me a new chance on life, a chance to grow and open so many doors. My life has changed because it has given me new opportunities I didn’t think I would ever have.” Watching Patrick blossom from a quieter, more reserved person into a thriving, confident member of his workplace and community fills Jessica with pride and gratitude.

Jessica and Patrick’s journey demonstrates that the heart of Best Buddies is compassionate friendship, inclusion, and supporting each other through every stage of life. As Patrick says,

“Best Buddies gave me my best friend.” And as Jessica reminds us, “The best part about Best Buddies is that you get something in return. You get to give back, you get to make the world a better place, and you get a friend.”

A special thank you to Rob J. Gooding for directing and filming this story that premiered at our 2025 Champion of the Year Gala.