The Best Buddies Living program represents one of our organization’s four key mission pillars, Inclusive Living. This program fosters an integrated experience for people with and without IDD to become active, contributing citizens who live independently in a dynamic environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.
Best Buddies is currently operating two Living residences in Washington, D.C., and one in Miami, FL. For more information, please see below.
How it works
Campus Life - Best Buddies Living locations are near school campuses – offering an environment that encourages the development of independent living skills, life-changing relationships, and educational pursuits in connection with college life.
Housing - Residences will vary based on the location. Some will be single-family homes, while others may be co-living units or apartments.
Residents - The Living program is open to individuals over the age of 18 who are ready to embrace independent living. Residents are asked to participate in weekly group meals and activities, maintain employment or attend a higher education program, and support fellow residents when needed.
Application - Individuals interested in enrolling in the program must submit an application, and provide letters of recommendation and a list of references. For more information, visit click here.
Cost - Each residence will have a unique pricing structure that includes room and board, onsite support, transportation and access to campus facilities and amenities.
Campus Immersion - Residents attend college games and participate in fitness classes, cultural events, holiday parties, volunteer opportunities, and sports activities alongside their student peers.
Support Team - Inclusive Living locations have Best Buddies team members onsite to support residents and ensure an inclusive environment
Locations
Washington, D.C. – Georgetown
This residence is located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. a 15 minute walk to Georgetown University, and is attached to Trader Joe’s. It is a luxury apartment building with space for six residents in two townhouse apartments with private bedrooms, private bathrooms and a shared kitchen and communal space. The building offers a fitness center and yoga studio, rooftop infinity pool with skyline views, 24-hour concierge, two courtyards, and a game room. Each apartment is fully-furnished with living room and bedroom furniture. The residence is in walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops and the Georgetown waterfront.
Occupancy
Two townhouses for three people with IDD and three for people without IDD.
Support
An on-sight Residential Manager provides a wide range of support to residents.
Building Type
Two, three bedroom, three bath townhomes subleased from a large apartment building in Georgetown. Each resident has their own bedroom and bathroom and shares kitchen and living space.
Requirements
Residents must be able to complete activities of daily living independently (eating, getting dressed, hygiene, etc.).
Partnered with Georgetown University
Opens their doors to our participants with disabilities. Participants with IDD receive an on-campus meal plan, are able to apply to on-campus jobs, attend sporting events, join clubs and participate in student life.
Program Fee and Financial Assistance
The Georgetown location program fee is $1,887 per month. Fee is all-inclusive (full use of the furnished apartment, pool, laundry, common spaces, gym and all building amenities), all utilities (water, electricity and WIFI) and monthly local outings. Residents with IDD pay an additional $1,400 monthly service residential fee for full-time support from our on-site residential manager. In addition, the monthly service residential fee includes the cost of weekly group meals and a Georgetown University meal plan OR grocery allowance. Financial assistance may be available through our Scholarship Fund.
For information on our Georgetown program costs and financial assistance, please submit a request for more info.
Washington, D.C. - Union Market
This residence is located in the NoMa neighborhood of Washington, D.C. steps from Union Market, in close proximity to Catholic University, attached to Trader Joe’s and a two-minute walk from the redline Metro. It is a luxury apartment building with space for six residents in two co-living apartments with private bedrooms, private or shared bathrooms and a shared kitchen and communal space. The building offers a 2,000-square foot gym, rooftop infinity pool and lounge, 24-hour concierge and access to a co-working space. Each room is fully-furnished with its own bed, closet, desk and nightstand. Adjacent to NoMa-Gallaudet U Metro Station, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops and Union Market, the residence’s location provides easy access to many of local amenities.
Occupancy
Six apartments for three people with IDD and three for people without IDD.
Support
An on-sight Residential Manager provides a wide range of support to residents.
Building Type
Two, three bedroom, two bath apartments subleased from a large apartment building in downtown D.C. Each resident has their own bedroom and shares kitchen, living and bathroom space.
Requirements
Residents must be able to complete activities of daily living independently (eating, getting dressed, hygiene, etc.).
Partnered with Catholic University
Opens their doors to our participants with disabilities. Participants with IDD receive an on-campus meal plan, are able to apply to on-campus jobs, attend sporting events, join clubs and participate in student life.
Program Fee and Financial Assistance
The Union Market location program fee is $1,782 per month. Fee is all-inclusive (full use of the furnished apartment, pool, laundry, common spaces, gym and all building amenities), all utilities (water, electricity and WIFI) and monthly local outings. Residents with IDD pay an additional $1,400 monthly service residential fee for full-time support from our on-site residential manager. In addition, the monthly service residential fee includes the cost of weekly group meals and a Catholic University meal plan OR grocery allowance. Financial assistance may be available through our Scholarship Fund.
Miami, Florida - Coral Gables
This program is located in the Coral Gables neighborhood of Miami in close proximity to University of Miami. It is a gorgeous apartment building with space for four participants in two apartments with private bedrooms and bathrooms and a shared kitchen and communal space. The residence has 24-hour concierge services, a spa and sauna, an in-building café, pools and cabanas, gym and fitness center and BBQ and picnic area. Each apartment is fully furnished with bedroom and living room furniture and an in-unit washer and dryer. The building is just steps away from coffee, shopping, restaurants and twenty-minute drive to Miami beach.
Occupancy
Four apartments for two people with IDD and two for people without IDD.
Support
An on-site Residential Manager provides a wide range of support to residents.
Building Type
Two, two bedroom, two bath apartments subleased from a large apartment building in Coral Gables. Each resident has their own bedroom and shares kitchen and living space.
Requirements
Residents must be able to complete activities of daily living independently (eating, getting dressed, hygiene, etc.).
Partnered with University of Miami
Opens their doors to our participants with disabilities. Participants with IDD receive an on-campus meal plan, are able to apply to on-campus jobs, attend sporting events, join clubs and participate in student life.
Program Fee and Financial Assistance
The Miami, Florida location program fee is $1,900 per month. Fee is all-inclusive (full use of the furnished apartment, pool, laundry, common spaces, gym and all building amenities), all utilities (water, electricity and WIFI) and monthly local outings. Residents with IDD pay a $1,400 monthly service residential fee for full-time support from our on-site residential manager. In addition, the monthly service residential fee includes the cost of weekly group meals and a University of Miami meal plan OR grocery allowance. Financial assistance may be available for through our Scholarship Fund.
Los Angeles, California – Westwood
Launching in Spring 2023.
Partnered with University of California, Los Angeles
Opens their doors to our participants with disabilities. Participants with IDD receive an on-campus meal plan, are able to apply to on-campus jobs, attend sporting events, join clubs and participate in student life.
Residential Manager support in other areas of personal growth
Budgeting
Grocery shopping
Healthy relationships
Friendships
Employment
Transportation
Health and well-being
Roommate skills
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the program available? What are the locations?
Currently, we have three Best Buddies Living locations. In Washington, D.C., there are two locations: Union Market and Georgetown. We have one location in the Coral Gables neighborhood of Miami, Florida.
For more information please complete our info request form.
Is there a waiting list to live at Best Buddies Living?
Availability varies within each program. Please complete our online interest form, to receive more information about the program you are interested in.
What is the cost to live at Best Buddies Living?
Cost vary by each location. Please see location descriptions for specific costs. Limited scholarships are available.
What are the expectations of Best Buddies Living residents?
All residents must have or want to gain full-time or part-time employment. Best Buddies Living works closely with the local Best Buddies Jobs program and can help residents seek employment. Additionally, residents will be encouraged to attend all group meals and monthly events and support a fellow resident when needed. Examples can include: assisting with laundry, cooking or in an emergency situation.
Are there qualifications that residents must meet to live at Best Buddies Living?
Yes. Best Buddies Living is an inclusive and independent living model. Individuals should be able to independently identify and respond in case of fire, medical emergency or unlawful entrance and enable independent evacuation in case of an emergency. Additionally, residents must be interested in working part-time or full-time and enjoy living in close proximity to a college or university.
May I use the benefits I receive in my state to pay for my rent at Best Buddies Living?
The program is an independent inclusive living program that is private pay only. However, some states do allow an individual’s benefits to fund their Best Buddies Living program and it is all dependent on which state you live in. Please complete our interest form if you would like more information.
Will there be support services offered at Best Buddies Living?
The program includes employment and friendship as drivers of the Best Buddies Living experience, with additional focus on community programming tied to the university experience, to ensure all residents build vital life skills. Best Buddies Living supports all residents in advancing their employment, financial literacy, continued education, and life skills as they work to achieve their personal goals.
The Best Buddies Living program supports inclusion by:
- Developing programs that foster an opportunity for residents to experience living with friends and colleagues. Activities to include weekly shared meals, fitness classes, cultural events, holiday parties, social activities, and sports.
- Providing a dynamic and enriching environment that encourages independent living, life-changing relationships, and professional growth opportunities.
- Matching people with and without IDD in a residential experience
- Creating a personalized support plan for each resident to work towards their independent living goals
How can I get in touch with a Best Buddies team member?
Please complete our online interest form and one of our Best Buddies team members will connect with you.
Is there an application process?
Yes, there is an application for interested participants and an application process which includes our Best Buddies Living application, supporting documents and an interview. Apply Here.
Can someone with behavioral challenges live at Best Buddies Living?
Best Buddies Living is designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their typical peers to live together in an inclusive environment. Due to the independent nature of Best Buddies Living, it is not an appropriate setting for individuals with behavioral challenges or individuals who require supervision.
Will there be 24-hour supervision at Best Buddies Living?
There will not be 24-hour supervision at Best Buddies Living programs. However, there will be 24-hour support available for serious medical and maintenance emergencies.
Will there be planned activities at Best Buddies Living?
All Best Buddies Living participants will have planned inclusive group activities such as college football games, game nights, dinners out, sports and movie nights. In addition, residents will participate in college events on campus and activities with their Best Buddies college chapter.
Will Best Buddies Living provide transportation?
Best Buddies Living does not provide transportation for our participants. However, residents will receive support in utilizing public transit or Uber/Lyft.
For more information on Best Buddies Living, please contact:
Living@bestbuddies.org
