On Saturday, November 8, 2025, more than 200 supporters filled The Hawthorn in St. Louis for Best Buddies Missouri’s Champion of the Year Gala—an evening that blended heartfelt purpose with unforgettable celebration. The atmosphere was energetic from the moment the doors opened, and the community came together in a powerful show of support for inclusion. By the end of the night, guests had helped raise over $133,000 to strengthen Best Buddies programs across Missouri, ensuring more friendships, leadership opportunities, and integrated employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The evening brought together supporters, community leaders, volunteers, and Best Buddies participants to celebrate the achievements of the 2025 Champions of the Year: Sage Acorn, Jay Davis & Maggie Scherder, Isabel Hogan & Darby Hogan Hille, David Large & Ethan Schroeder, and Melissa Schroeder & Ethan Wylie.

The Champion Candidates spent the eight weeks leading up to the event raising awareness and funds to support Best Buddies programs. The campaigns culminated at the gala where the top fundraiser was crowned Grand Champion. The sister duo of Isabel Hogan and Darby Hogan Hille won the 2025 honor by raising an astounding $39,060!

Isabel and Darby led a passionate and creative campaign that inspired their network and exceeded every expectation, a testament to their commitment to the mission and to the generosity of the community that rallied behind them.

The gala itself was packed with excitement and memorable moments. Guests eagerly competed for their chance to win a private suite for a St. Louis Blues game at the Enterprise Center. Attendees also bid enthusiastically in both the Silent and Live Auctions, fueling more support for Best Buddies’ life-changing work.

The room really let loose when the Silent Disco got started. As soon as participants slipped on the headphones, the dance floor filled instantly, and before long, people were dancing on stage, starting conga lines, and losing themselves in the joy of the music and the moment. It was a celebration of community, connection, and pure fun—perfectly capturing the spirit of Best Buddies.

The 2025 Champion of the Year Gala proved, once again, that Missouri is home to a vibrant and passionate community of inclusion advocates. To every Champion, supporter, donor, family, and volunteer who made the night possible, thank you for helping build a brighter and more inclusive future. Your generosity and enthusiasm made this a night to remember—and a reminder of the powerful impact we can make together.