Best Buddies in New Mexico has received a $50,000 Blue Impact℠ grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM) to maintain and expand its Integrated Employment program, also known as the Jobs program. This investment supports meaningful employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across New Mexico.

Through the Jobs program, Best Buddies works with participants and employer partners to help people with IDD pursue employment that reflects their interests, abilities, and goals. The grant will support participants throughout their employment journey, from preparing for work and exploring job opportunities to receiving support as they build skills and independence in the workplace.

“We are incredibly grateful to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico for investing in Best Buddies and our Jobs program. This support allows us to continue creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while building stronger, more inclusive workplaces across New Mexico. Partnerships like this help us ensure that the people we serve have the opportunity to pursue their goals, build independence, and be valued for the talents they bring to the workforce,” said Victoria Byrd, State Director of Best Buddies in New Mexico.

Meaningful employment offers opportunities to earn an income, develop relationships, and contribute to the community. By working collaboratively with employer partners and providing ongoing participant support, Best Buddies helps create workplaces where people with IDD can contribute their talents and continue growing.

BCBSNM’s Blue Impact grant initiative invests in community organizations with sustainable, measurable programs that address social and economic factors affecting health and wellness. Supporting access to employment aligns with this focus by helping people build greater independence and connections within their communities.

“Employment provides more than a paycheck. It creates opportunity, independence and a sense of belonging,” said Janice Torrez, market lead and president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico. “We’re proud to support Best Buddies in New Mexico as they help connect individuals with meaningful careers while strengthening workplaces and communities throughout our state.”

Best Buddies in New Mexico is grateful for BCBSNM’s $50,000 investment in inclusive employment. This partnership will help sustain and expand the support participants need to pursue their goals while strengthening opportunities for employers to build more inclusive teams.

Submission information

Award amount: $50,000

Program supported: Integrated Employment or Jobs program

Grant period: July 2026-June 2027

Best Buddies contact: Victoria Byrd

Email: Victoriabyrd@bestbuddies.org