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News & Stories

Coming soon!

Josh (left) with three other students in green caps and gowns at the Langley High School Graduation.

2025 Best Buddies Graduation Brunch & Awards

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 and the Outstanding Chapters and Advisors!

2025 BBMN Owatonna Community Kicks Off Summer with Best Buddies Picnic Having Fun

Owatonna Community Kicks Off Summer with Best Buddies Picnic!

Over 200 members celebrated friendship, connection, and fun at Manthey Park.

A Moment for Moms

A Moment for Moms – Hosted by Bregman Cares

June 28, 2025
Multiple Locations

Join us for a day of movement and self-care for moms!

2025 BBVADC Anchor Bar

Loudon Citizens Event: Trivia at Anchor Bar

June 25, 2025
Leesburg, VA

Put your knowledge to the test and make new friends!

2025 BBVADC BBLC

2025 Best Buddies Leadership Conference

July 18–21, 2025
Bloomington, IN

Attend the Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference at IU!

A diverse group of five creatives, including individuals with visible disabilities, sit in a semi-circle on modern chairs and sofas in a warmly lit studio. They are engaged in a thoughtful conversation, with one person holding a notecard. The setting includes cozy furniture, plants, and decorative lighting, evoking a relaxed talk-show atmosphere.

How Creatives With Disabilities Are Building Careers and Changing the Entertainment Industry

In a conversation presented by Easterseals Disability Services, a nonprofit supporting people with disabilities for over 100 years, disabled creatives and allies discuss inclusion in Hollywood.

A young woman with Down syndrome smiling proudly in front of a step-and-repeat banner at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference. She is wearing a white T-shirt that says “I’m IN” in colorful letters, standing in front of the Best Buddies logo, which features two abstract human figures holding hands.

Fort Worth Filmmakers Plan ‘First-Ever’ Buddy Comedy Starring Actors with Down Syndrome

The first buddy comedy movie starring two actors with Down syndrome is being planned by Fort Worth-based Out of Order Studios.

Poco Carton Steps into Leadership

Inclusion in Action: Poco Carton Steps into Leadership

Poco leads with heart as State Director, inspiring inclusion and meaningful connections

Best Buddies at the Richmond Kickers

Best Buddies at the Richmond Kicker’s

September 20, 2025
Richmond, VA

Celebrate Best Buddies and a win for inclusion at the Kicker’s Game!

Seneca Valley School District Hosts Friendship Walk 3

Seneca Valley School District Hosts Friendship Walk

Haine Elementary School Puts on Their 2nd Annual Friendship Walk Raising Over $7000 for BBPA!

FCPS Schools Recognized for Being the Best Best Buddies

Fairfax County Public Schools Recognized for Being the Best Best Buddies

FCPS Celebrates Glasgow Middle School and Bonnie Brae Elementary School

Friendship Walk 1

Walking for a Better Missouri

More than 900 supporters walked for inclusion at BBMO’s 2025 Friendship Walk

Meet Elizabeth Grondin

Meet Elizabeth Grondin!

Avon Grove Chapter President and Student Advisory Board Member

BB and RSM Ambassador Training

Best Buddies & RSM Ambassador Training

October 16, 2025
RSM Office

RSM is partnering with Best Buddies for a day of professional development.

Cyclists riding together on a road during an organized biking event, wearing helmets and team jerseys.

The 26th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented By Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s And Star Market Foundation And The TJX Companies, Inc. Raises More Than $4 Million To Support People With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities

Boston, June 3, 2025 – This year, over 1,000 people participated in the 26th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation and The TJX Companies, Inc. More, a cycling, run and walk fundraiser from Boston to Hyannis Port, May 30 -31.

Five cyclists posing with their bikes at the Best Buddies Challenge event, including 7NEWS WHDH team members wearing matching red, blue, and purple jerseys.

7NEWS team members join thousands of cyclists in Best Buddies Challenge

BOSTON (WHDH) – 7NEWS chief meteorologist Jeremy Reiner and anchors Juliana Mazza and Amaka Ubaka joined thousands of other cyclists in completing the Best Buddies Challenge.

A Day of Inclusion and Impact Fun and Walking

A Day of Inclusion and Impact: 2025 Best Buddies Friendship Walk

Over 1,000 walkers united for friendship, raising $138,000 for Arizona’s programs.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

September & November 2025
Seacoast & Nashua

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

BBLC in July

2025 Best Buddies Leadership Conference

July 18, 2025
Indiana University, Bloomington, IN

Attend the Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference at IU!

BBLC banner

Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2025

July 18, 2025
Bloomington, IN

Join us at BBLC 2025!

Eleanor Jones, Clerical Assistant, seated and smiling in a conference room with a long meeting table and office chairs.

The Best Buddies Challenge’- a bike ride from Boston to Hyannis Port that can change lives

BOSTON (WHDH) – Meet Elanor Jones. With every keystroke, she’s breaking down barriers.

Cyclists racing at the Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port event, with enthusiastic spectators cheering along the route.

Inclusion’s about welcoming everybody’: 7News to join Best Buddies Challenge, biking from Boston to Cape Cod

HYANNIS, MASS. (WHDH) – From Boston to the coast of Cape Cod, Anthony Shriver is peddling with a purpose.

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye in a light blue shirt preparing to throw a football during practice, with a blurred crowd in the background.

New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye To Serve As Honorary Chair Of 26th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented By Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s And Star Market Foundation And The Tjx Companies, Inc.

New England Patriots Quarterback and Best Buddies Global Ambassador Drake Maye will serve as Honorary Chair of the 26th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation and The TJX Companies, Inc. More than 1,500 people are expected to participate in the Challenge – a charity ride, run, and walk to benefit Best Buddies International.

June Fisher Cats Game

Best Buddies in New Hampshire Fisher Cats Game!

June 21, 2025
Manchester, NH

BBNH Fisher Cats Game Star Wars Night

Friendship Walk Recap 1

2025 Friendship Walk Welcomes Over 1,000 Attendees to Celebrate Inclusion for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Grand Champion raises over $50,000 for Best Buddies mission in Minnesota.

Friendship Walk Recap Collage

2025 Friendship Walk Recap

Celebrating The Power of Inclusion

Michigan Friendship Walk

Inclusion in Action: 2025 Friendship Walk Breaks Records at Detroit Zoo

Michigan’s biggest Friendship Walk yet raised $84,000 and welcomed nearly 1,200 participants.

Pirates 2025 Giveback Flyer

Best Buddies Pirates Night

July 27, 2025
Pittsburgh, PA

Please join us at PNC Park on July 27th when the Pirates take on the Diamondbacks

Best Buddies at the Ball Park Sep

Best Buddies at the Ball Park!

September 12, 2025
Philadelphia, PA

Please join us at Citizens Bank Park on Friday, September 12.

Virtual Ice Cream Social

Citizens Virtual Ice Cream Social

June 24, 2025
Zoom

Citizens Ice Cream Social on Zoom!

Two smiling women, one wearing a black

‘We love each other’: Best Buddies creating inclusion, community for those with, without disabilities

There are simple things we need to live full lives. One of them is friendship. Not just the friendships that last passing the halls at your company, but the kind of friendships where people show up for each other, regardless of what you are going through.

Two teenage girls smile while standing outdoors on a sunny day. One wears a blue shirt and a dark Best Buddies baseball cap, and the other wears a light green crop top and denim shorts. They stand close together, with arms around each other, showing friendship and inclusion. The background is filled with greenery and blurred buildings.

Friendship, inclusion, and the power of showing up: How Best Buddies is building belonging in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley

Rachael Fischer is a skier, a storyteller, and a state director with a mission. The Indiana native now leads Best Buddies in Colorado, part of a global nonprofit born from the Kennedy-Shriver legacy, that’s redefining inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

A diverse group of people walk together down a sunny street during the Best Buddies Friendship Walk. Many wear purple T-shirts with messages of inclusion, and several participants hold a large purple banner that reads “Best Buddies Friendship Walk.” The event promotes friendship and inclusiveness. A WAND News banner is visible at the bottom of the image.

Best Buddies friendship walk promotes inclusiveness in the Capitol City

Working to make Springfield more inclusive, Best Buddies held their Friendship Walk at Lincoln Land Community College. The event serves as a way to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities build friendships and find jobs.

Eunie's Buddies Espresso Yourself

Eunie’s Buddies – Expresso Yourself

1st Monday & 3rd Thursday of the Month
Zoom

Pour a cup. Take a Breath. Let’s chat.

From Doubt to Determination Yuhan

From Doubt to Determination

Yuhan’s Employment Journey

Best Buddies International delegation attending the 2025 Global Disability Summit in Berlin, inside a large industrial venue filled with attendees and panelists under a skylit roof.

Best Buddies International at the 2025 Global Disability Summit in Berlin

Best Buddies advances global inclusion at the 2025 Global Disability Summit in Berlin.

Best Buddies in Ohio Chapter Awards

Best Buddies in Ohio Chapter Awards 2024-2025

We are proud to honor these leaders who have made a great impact in their community this year.

Friendship Walk Recap Collage 1

Friendship Walk 2025 – A Celebration of Community, Inclusion & Impact

Oklahoma united in celebration of inclusion, friendship, and the power of community.

A friendship that lasts Maddie and Shaila

A Friendship That Lasts – Maddi & Shaila Celebrate Three Years of Friendship at OSU

Three years of laughter, inclusion, and friendship built through Best Buddies OSU.

walkers under start line

2025 Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Richmond, Virginia

The Richmond community walked for inclusion and joy at the Friendship Walk!

Walkers at event holding Best Buddies sign

2025 Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Washington, DC

Celebrating inclusion, friendship, and everything people with disabilities are capable of achieving!

Senior Spotlight Carvel Graduating Class

Senior Spotlight: Carvel

“Best Buddies has allowed me to become a good friend and leader.”

Meet Ashley Hutton Collage

Meet Ashley Hutton

2x Elizabethtown Chapter President and 2025 BBPA Volunteer of the Year

Celebrating Inclusion Statewide Collage

Celebrating Inclusion Statewide with 2,500 Walking for Best Buddies in Pennsylvania!

Best Buddies Friendship Walks Unite Pennsylvania for Inclusion

Best Buddies Philippines staff and volunteers group photo indoors during inclusion workshop.

A Landmark Visit to the Philippines: Championing Inclusion Across Islands

A powerful week in the Philippines advancing inclusion, leadership, and global friendship.

Riverhounds and Riveters Giveback Nights Flyer

Riverhounds and Riveters Giveback!

May 2025
Pittsburgh, PA

Join us for Riverhounds and Riveters Giveback Nights for Best Buddies!

Strings & Stories Eunies Buddies

Eunie’s Buddies – Strings & Stories

September 6, 2025
Homestead Cybrarium

Strings & Stories

June Monthly Events Calendar

Monthly Events Calendar

June 2025
Statewide

Join your Best Buddies in Minnesota for fun virtual and in-person activities!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Galas in Florida

Fall 2025
Statewide

Champion of the Year is a fundraising competition featuring prominent community leaders.

event flyer

TasteBuds Junior

May 15, 2025
Pittsburgh, PA

Join us for the second annual Tastebuds Jr. culinary tasting event.

screen shot of news coverage

Annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk celebrates disability inclusion

The annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk was held on Saturday to raise awareness for the organization’s efforts to connect individuals with and without disabilities.

Screenshot of news show

Over 400 walkers lace up for Best Buddies Friendship Walk to support inclusion

The Best Buddies Friendship Walk kicked off with a day of fun and community at Total Sports Experience in Gates.

Michah and John in a classroom

Meet Ambassadors Micah Fitzgerald and John Parker

Micah and JP: Ambassadors, athletes, and unstoppable buddies spreading joy and inclusion!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

May 17, 2025
Des Moines, IA

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Minnesota

May 18, 2025
Eagan, MN

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

walkers at event

Seneca Valley Friendship Walk

May 31, 2025
Cranberry Twp, PA

Join us for the 2nd Annual Seneca Valley Best Buddies Walk.

Best Buddies and Special Olympics logo

A Note from the Chairmen of Best Buddies and Special Olympics: The Gifts of People with Autism

As we come to the end of Autism Awareness Month, we want to join with self-advocates and friends and family members around the world in celebrating the gifts of people with autism.

Walk for a world that welcomes all

Walk for a World That Welcomes All

Support Best Buddies as they make the world a more welcoming place at their upcoming Friendship Walk event.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

Spring 2025
Cleveland, Cincinnati & Columbus

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Celebrating Changemakers in SW Ohio

Celebrating Our Changemakers: University of Dayton’s Chapter President Reflects on Friendship, Leadership, and Lasting Impact

Chapter President Molly Morris leaves behind a legacy of inclusion, leadership, and heart

unlocking your potential flyer

Unlocking Your Potential: Discovering Identity, Disability Awareness, and Goals

June 18, 2025
Edina, MN

Join us for our new Leadership Development workshop series!

June Monthly Events Calendar

Monthly Events Calendar

June 2025
Statewide

Join your Best Buddies in Texas for fun virtual and in-person activities!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Nevada

April 27, 2025
Henderson, NV

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Interior of a cozy, modern bakery with wooden tables and white cabinetry, featuring the Rosetta Bakery and Best Buddies logos side by side, symbolizing their partnership.

Italian bakery Rosetta x Best Buddies set to open in Bethesda, MD later this year

Italian bakery plans to employ people with IDD in downtown Bethesda.

Group of cyclists and supporters gathered under a 'Best Buddies Queen Stage Palo Alto' banner at a charity cycling event, celebrating with raised hands and smiles, presented by the Safeway Foundation.

The Inaugural Best Buddies Queen Stage: Palo Alto Presented By Safeway Foundation Raises $2 Million For Best Buddies International

Event Proceeds To Support Best Buddies’ Mission Of Inclusion For Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities

PALO ALTO, CA, April 15, 2025 – On April 11-12, Best Buddies International hosted the Best Buddies Queen Stage: Palo Alto, a charity bike ride, that commenced and concluded at the illustrious Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park, CA. The event raised $2 million for Best Buddies programs.

Interior of a cozy, modern bakery with wooden tables and white cabinetry, featuring the Rosetta Bakery and Best Buddies logos side by side, symbolizing their partnership.

Italian bakery Rosetta x Best Buddies set to open in Bethesda, MD later this year

Rosetta x Best Buddies, an Italian bakery that plans to employ people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is set to open in downtown Bethesda later this year, according to a press release from the business.

Kick Off Party

In Person Friendship Walk Kick Off Party Exeter

April 19, 2025
Exeter, NH

Join us to celebrate the Friendship Walk season!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Maryland

May 3, 2025
College Park, MD

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Rosetta The Italian Bakery logo alongside the Best Buddies logo featuring two colorful, stylized human figures with one arm around the other, symbolizing friendship, with a collaboration 'x' between them.

Rosetta Bakery and Best Buddies International to Open New Bethesda Location

Bethesda, MD, April 9, 2025 – Rosetta Bakery, renowned for authentic, handcrafted Italian baked goods that honor tradition and Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), are pleased to announce the continued expansion of their inspiring partnership with the forthcoming debut of a new Rosetta Bakery x Best Buddies location in Bethesda, Maryland.

Parent Connection Night

Parent Connection Night

April 24, 2025
Nashville, TN

Join us for an evening of fostering connections, community, and support with other parents.

Earth Day Flyer

Virtual Earth Day Celebration on Zoom

April 22, 2025
Zoom

Join us on Zoom for Earth Day action and awareness!

Granite Edvance Flyer

Virtual Find Your Calling

April 24, 2025
Zoom

Finding your calling, education and career exploration!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Oklahoma

April 19, 2025
Tulsa, OK

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in North Carolina

Spring 2025
Charlotte & Raleigh

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

A family of four posing for a photo in front of the Katherine Thomas School seal. A young woman is wearing a red cap and gown and holding her diploma.

Molly’s Story

State Director Molly Whalen, mother to two individuals with autism, shares her perspective.

Large crowd of participants walking under a purple Best Buddies arch at an outdoor event, with many wearing event t-shirts.

Thousands put their best foot forward at Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk at loanDepot Park

MIAMI (WSVN) – Thousands of people woke up bright and early to put their best foot forward, all in the name of friendship.

Best Buddies International is excited to announce the Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami on April 5th at loanDepot Park, the home of the Miami Marlins. With nearly 50,000 participants at more than 70 walks across the globe, the Best Buddies Friendship Walk is the leading walk in the country supporting inclusion for the IDD community.

Best Buddies to Host Annual Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk at loanDepot Park

Best Buddies International is excited to announce the Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami on April 5th at loanDepot Park, the home of the Miami Marlins. With nearly 50,000 participants at more than 70 walks across the globe, the Best Buddies Friendship Walk is the leading walk in the country supporting inclusion for the IDD community.

Two parents sitting on the grass in a park with their young children, smiling and playing together on a blanket under the trees.

A new program helps connect parents who have kids with special needs with mentors

Best Buddies is expanding. The nonprofit that supports people with disabilities now offers a new program. It provides support to families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Best Buddies’ Training with Giant Eagle Coming Together

Empowering Ambassadors: Best Buddies’ Training with Giant Eagle

Best Buddies partners with Giant Eagle for impactful Ambassador Training on kindness and inclusion

Buddy Ball with Clearview Making a Difference

Clearview’s Support Shines at the Best Buddies Friendship Ball

CFCU’s generosity and commitment to inclusion made the Best Buddies event unforgettable.

Watson

Celebrating Watson Montgomery

Watson Montgomery’s leadership and commitment to inclusion at Duquesne University make him a true inspiration!

Group of smiling Best Buddies supporters and a TODAY Show host gathered outside the studio with colorful signs promoting inclusion and the Best Buddies organization.

Best Buddies International Celebrates Best Buddies Month, Championing Inclusion for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Best Buddies launched the Eunie’s Buddies campaign, #WithYou — a nationwide movement supporting families of individuals with IDD through mentorship, resources, and community during Best Buddies Month and World Down Syndrome Day.

Michael Miller and David Quilleon in a split-screen virtual interview on Community News Network, with ocean and city backgrounds, discussing Best Buddies during Autism Awareness Month.

Best Buddies’ Featured on Community News Network in Celebration of Autism Awareness Month

David Quilleon, Senior Vice President of Global Mission, State Development & Operations at Best Buddies, recently joined Michael Miller of Miami Community Newspapers to discuss Best Buddies and Autism Awareness Month.

A joyful group of people, including individuals with Down syndrome, participate in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Belgrade. They are smiling, holding balloons and signs promoting inclusion and friendship. The event takes place on a lively city street at night, creating a warm, supportive atmosphere.

A Walk Towards Inclusion: Best Buddies Serbia Hosts Annual Friendship Walk

Best Buddies Serbia hosts annual Friendship Walk on World Down Syndrome Day.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Tennessee

April & May 2025
Statewide

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in Florida

April & May 2025
Statewide

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Portrait of a woman with long blonde hair, wearing a dark blazer, smiling softly outdoors with a blurred green background.

Jennifer Allen Named One of Miami’s Top 50 Women Leaders

Best Buddies’ Senior Director of International Programs is recognized for her global impact on inclusion.

#BBPSamaSamaSaturday Virtual Poetry event with Clarence and Austin. Event details: March 21, 2025, 7 PM WA time and March 22, 2025, 11 AM PH time. The image features two speakers on the right, each in video call frames with a colorful digital background and the words 'Inclusion needs US.

Philippines & Best Buddies Washington Host International Virtual Poetry Event

Global Collaboration Brings Friendship and Creativity to the Forefront.

Mothers Day Celebration

Mother’s Day Celebration

May 17, 2025
Arrington, TN

Join us for a family-friendly Mother’s Day Celebration at Arrington Vineyards!

Eunie's Buddies Online Webinar

Eunie’s Buddies Online Webinar – Nurturing Yourself

May 14, 2025
Webminar

Learn about self-care with guest speaker Dr. Jessika Boles.

A Mother’s Day Celebration of Self Care

A Night of Inclusion and Joy Dining

2025 Best Buddies Connecticut Friendship Ball: A Night of Inclusion and Joy

The Friendship Ball celebrated inclusion, friendship, and unity with joy and excitement!

Cross Street Intermediate School circle

Best Buddies in CT Star Participants of the Month: Cross Street Intermediate Best Buddies

Cross Street Best Buddies creates friendships, inclusion, and kindness in their school!

Family Day at the Park

Family Park Day

April 13, 2025
Brentwood, TN

Bring your friends and family as we enjoy a beautiful day at the Miles Together Inclusive Playground with families from GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville!

Map Keys

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in Illinois

Spring 2025
Chicago, Normal, & Will County, IL

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Best Buddies participants and supporters holding signs at the Today Show plaza, engaging with the show's host during a live broadcast celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2025.

Best Buddies Visit NBC’s Today Show in Celebration of World Down Syndrome Day

On Friday, March 21, 2025, our incredible Best Buddies participants took over the TODAY Show to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day and Best Buddies Month!

Ava Opland, President of Tea Area Best Buddies, speaks during a news segment highlighting the Best Buddies program.

Spreading kindness through the Best Buddies program

The Tea Area School District is celebrating kindness this week, with some high schoolers hosting a special assembly for younger students.

Actress Kennedy Garcia discusses her role as a 'Best Buddies' ambassador on New York Living during a segment celebrating World Down Syndrome Day.

Actress Kennedy Garcia talks being an ambassador for ‘Best Buddies’

Actress Kennedy Garcia made history as the first person with down syndrome to land a recurring role on daytime TV. Now she’s using her platform to help others…

2025 BBIA Sam Harrington and Sanel Pehlic On the Bus

Meet Roosevelt High School Members Sam and Sanel

Building Friendships and Changing Lives Through Best Buddies

Jackson Hole Best Buddies Chapter Highlight Gymnasium

Best Buddies Spark Joy at Special Olympics Opening Ceremony for Best Buddies Month

Jackson Hole Best Buddies Spark Joy at Special Olympics Opening Ceremony for Best Buddies Month

Dine to Donate at Texas Roadhouse

Dine to Donate at Texas Roadhouse

Tuesdays in March 2025
Various Texas Roadhouse Locations

Dine at Texas Roadhouse and Give Back to Best Buddies!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Delaware

April 19, 2025
Wilmington, DE

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Buddy Ball Recap

Buddy Ball Unveils the Magic of Friendship

BBMO hosted its first Buddy Ball event at The Magic House

event flyer

Richmond Friendship Walk Kickoff

March 26, 2025
Richmond, VA

Learning about the Best Buddies Friendship Walk with your Richmond community

Marko painting with a group of best buddies participants

Interview with Marko Tomasevic: Supporting Children in Need Across the Globe

Marko Tomasevic shares his journey of volunteering, fundraising, and supporting children globally.

You are not alone flyer

You Are Not Alone: Support and Resources for Caregivers and Families of Children with Disabilities

April 7, 2025
Basalt, CO

Presented by Best Buddies, this workshop will offer self-care and coping strategies to families and caregivers of children with disabilities.

Sioux Falls Best Buddy Prom Group

Sioux Falls Best Buddies Prom: An Electrifying Night of Friendship and Fun!

Sioux Falls Best Buddies Prom: A Night of Friendship and Fun!

Local Leadership Training Friends Laughing

FIRST In-Person Local Leadership Training Day

South Dakota’s FIRST In-Person Local Leadership Training Day Success!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks

October 18, 2025
Boston, MA

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

You are not alone flyer

You Are Not Alone: Support and Resources for Caregivers and Families of Children with Disabilities

April 9, 2025
Lakewood, CO

Join us for an insightful Family Informational Night focused on self-care resources, hosted in collaboration with Gigi’s Playhouse.

Pizza Party

&pizza Ballston Giveback Fundraiser

March 22, 2025
Arlington, VA

Order pizza to support Best Buddies at &pizza in Ballston!

Friendship Ball flyer with wizard of oz theme

The Yellow Brick Road to Friendship Buddy Ball

April 25, 2025
Cherry Hills Village, CO

Follow the yellow brick road to a night of wickedly inclusive fun!

Team Poster Giveaway

Best Buddies at the Providence Bruins!

April 6, 2025
Providence, RI

Join Best Buddies for a day at the Providence Bruins!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks: Colorado

May & June 2025
Denver & Roaring Fork

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Arizona

April 12, 2025
Tempe, AZ

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Flatbread Earth Oven Pizza Event

Benefit Night at Flatbread Company Providence

April 15, 2025
Providence, RI

Join us at Flatbread Company for the Best Buddies Benefit Night!

Ambassador Showcase Feature

Ambassador Showcase

April 17, 2025
North Andover, MA

Join us for the 2025 Ambassador Showcase celebrating the achievements of our Best Buddies Ambassadors!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year: Aspen & Denver

Jul. 3 & Nov. 8 2025
Aspen and Denver, CO

Champion of the Year is a fundraising competition featuring prominent community leaders.

BoA Charity Sponsor Logo

The Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America

April 21, 2025
Boston, MA

Join and support our 2025 team!

WooSox Day

Best Buddies Day at the WooSox!

August 2, 2025
Worcester, MA

Join Best Buddies for a fun day at the park!

Team Captain social

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Columbus Team Captain Social

March 20, 2025
Columbus, OH

Join us at Jeremiah’s Corner for an evening of community, art, and fun!

talent show participants

Dakota High School Hosts Unforgettable Talent Show

Dakota High School’s talent show celebrated inclusion, talent, and community during Best Buddies Month.

walkers crossing the finish line at event

Steps Toward Greater Inclusion: Best Buddies Canada’s Inaugural Friendship Walk

Best Buddies Canada celebrates the success of their inaugural Friendship Walk.

Coffee and Chat Family Social Apr 27

RI Family Social – Pre-Friendship Walk Coffee and Chat

April 27, 2025
Providence, RI

Join us for a fun Family Support Social over coffee and donuts!

August 12, 2025  
Online  

Join us at PLAN of MA & RI's webinar series!

PLAN Webinar Series: Planning Options For You and Your Family

August 12, 2025
Online

Join us at PLAN of MA & RI’s webinar series!

Coffee and Chat Family Social May 17

MA Family Social – Pre-Friendship Walk Coffee and Chat

May 17, 2025
Worcester, MA

Join us for a fun Family Support Social over coffee and donuts!

Yvenie Getting Her Necessities

Finding Community

Yvenie’s Journey with Best Buddies Living

Game Time

Leveling Up Inclusion

Best Buddies in San Diego Partners with UESL

friendship walkers in spain

Best Buddies Spain’s First Friendship Walk: Walking Together for Inclusion

Best Buddies Spain hosts their first Friendship Walk of the 2025 season.

Family Support Coming to Florida

Family Support Comes to Florida

Our newest program provides resources for families raising children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Colorful Easter Egg Hunt

Somerset Easter Egg Hunt

April 5, 2025
Princess Anne, MD

Join us for a Community Wide Easter Egg Hunt!

Colorful Easter Egg Hunt

Somerset Easter Egg Hunt

April 5, 2025
Princess Anne, MD

Join us for a Community Wide Easter Egg Hunt!

TB-Flyer-Ashlawn

Eat Tacos, Do Good: Ashlawn ES Giveback Night at Taco Bamba

March 26, 2025
Arlington, VA

Eat tacos and support Ashlawn Elementary at Taco Bamba’s giveback night!

Bowling and Pizza

Bingo & Pizza

March 15, 2025
Merrimack, NH

Bowling & Pizza with BBNH!

Eunies Buddies Espresso Yourself Flyer

Espresso Yourself

Last Friday of the Month
Littleton, CO

Join a monthly parent meetup with no pressure, just connection.

Meet Madison Smith Collage 2

Meet Madison Smith

Ursinus Chapter President and Extraordinary Leader and Advocate for Best Buddies

BBWA Advisory Board Retreat Members

2025 Advisory Board Retreat

Washington Advisory Board celebrated successes, set 2025 goals, and welcomed new members.

Brie the Change Flyer

Brie The Change Dinner

March 27, 2025
Westlake, OH

Join us at Well Done Catering for Brie The Change Dinner!

St Patricks Day Zoom Party Invite

BBNH St Patrick’s Day Zoom Party

March 17, 2025
Zoom

Dancing, Games, & More!

Cyclists riding in Hyannis Port

Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port

May 31, 2025
Boston to Hyannis Port

A once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.

group image

Back to Best Buddies 2025

Best Buddies helped me come out of my shell and make friends!

MM birthday

Meet Michael & Miki!

Inclusion is an opportunity for everyone to thrive as their authentic self.

A smiling man in a dark blazer and light blue button-up shirt holds a white football while standing in front of a large NFL logo. The background features multiple white footballs mounted on a blue wall. The setting appears to be an official NFL-related event or display.

Fascination with numbers, records helped Zach Smith land dream job with NFL

Zach Smith, just 27, is one of the NFL’s ace statisticians based at league headquarters in New York City. He is also autistic.

TokensForBags

Best Buddies in Arizona Partners with Buffalo Exchange for Tokens for Bags Program

Shop sustainably and support inclusion by choosing Best Buddies in Arizona at Buffalo Exchange.

Friends Dancing

Celebrating Friendship and Inclusion at the 2025 Best Buddies Friendship Ball

Celebrating friendship, inclusion, and unforgettable memories at the 2025 Best Buddies Friendship Ball.

Chicagoland Events

Chicagoland Citizens Events!

Multiple Dates
Chicago & Naperville, IL

Join us for monthly Citizens Events throughout the Chicagoland area!

Best Buddies Pickleball

Best Buddies Citizens in Butler County: Pickleball Games

May 14, 2025
West Chester Township, OH

Join Best Buddies Citizens in Butler County for pickleball, pizza, and friendship-building!

Restorative Yoga Retreat Flyer

Yoga Retreat for Parents and Caregivers

July 28, 2025
Lakewood, CO

Join us to celebrate caregivers with yoga, snacks, and support!

Best Buddies Spirit Week

Spirit Week

March 10-14, 2025
Virtual

Join Best Buddies in Illinois for Spirit Week 2025!

3rd Annual Best Buddies 8ball Tournament

Best Buddies 8 Ball Tournament

March 15, 2025
Clive, IA

Join us for the 3rd Annual Best Buddies Benefit 8-Ball Tourney!

Compete to Speak Presentations

Compete to Speak at Friendship Walk | Presentations

March 12, 2025
Zoom

You’ve practiced the skills and now it’s time to present!

Citizens Rock

Building Friendships, Changing Lives: Best Buddies Citizens in Butler County!

Best Buddies Citizens fosters meaningful friendships and inclusion for adults with IDD in Butler County.

Meet Deeba and Diana

Buddy Pair Spotlight: Deeba & Dina

A Bond Beyond Best Buddies

Ben Haworth

Ambassador Trainings

Mastering the Art of the Elevator Pitch

Meet Tanner

Tanner the Trailblazer

Paving the Way for Neurodiverse Workforces

August 13, 2025  
Charlestown, MA  

Join us for a fun Family Support Social!

Family Ice Cream Social – Eunie’s Buddies 1 Year Celebration

August 13, 2025
Charlestown, MA

Join us for a fun Family Support Social!

Lost Rhino Best Buddies Fundraiser Flyer

Lost Rhino Giveback Night

March 27, 2025
Ashburn, VA

Enjoy a drink while making an impact at Lost Rhino Brewing Company!

Gigis Playhouse Sibling Open House Flyer

Sibling Open House

August 2, 2025
Lakewood, CO

This is an event just for the siblings of our participants with IDD.

falmouth road race

ASICS Falmouth Road Race

August 17, 2025
Falmouth, MA

Join us in the historic Falmouth Road Race Numbers for Nonprofits Program.

Elementary B2BB

First Elementary “Back to Best Buddies” Training in Alabama History!

Best Buddies Alabama trains Tuscaloosa City Schools elementary advisors to support new district chapters.

Back to Best Buddies

Best Buddies in Alabama Hosts Leadership Training Day

Record turnout at Best Buddies Alabama’s training strengthens chapters and promotes inclusion.

Leadership Training

Ambassador Training Day

March 29, 2025
Las Vegas, NV

Join us for Ambassador Training!

Ryen and Daniel

Meet Ambassadors Ryen McRoberts and Daniel Schumacher

Inclusion means action, not just words—everyone deserves to belong.

Best Buddies Family Support provides families with essential resources to navigate raising a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Best Buddies Family Support Program

Best Buddies Family Support provides families with essential resources to navigate raising a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Hyannis Port Cape Cod Golf Tournament Logo

Hyannisport Golf Tournament

September 8, 2025
Hyannis Port, MA

Tee off for Best Buddies on the Cape!

cyclists at event

Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Kick-Off Party

March 6, 2025
Medford, MA

Celebrate inclusion and learn about the Best Buddies Challenge!

Blake Brown is a dedicated leader, family man, and community advocate.

March Newest Board Member – Blake Brown

Blake Brown is a dedicated leader, family man, and community advocate.

Brewer Rock Climbing

Brewer High School Reaches New Heights

A rock climbing event that was more than just a fun activity

Nathan Dean

Nathan Dean named 2024 Best Buddies International Champion of the Year!

Nathan Dean raised a record-setting $369,000 for Best Buddies in Tennessee

Open House Flyer

Open House – Celebrating 5 Years of Inclusion

April 2, 2025
Edina, MN

Visit us at our open house!

Friendship ball save the date flyer

2025 Friendship Ball

April 12, 2025
Minnetonka, MN

Dance the night away with us at the Friendship Ball!

Sibling Social Game Night and Pizza

Sibling Social – Game Night

September 23, 2025
Location TBD

Join us for a fun Family Support Social – Sibling Edition!

Wizards Basketball Night

Best Buddies at the Wizards!

March 5, 2025
Washington, DC

Celebrate friendship with Best Buddies at the Wizards game on March 5th!

Backyard Brewery Musical Bingo

BBNH Backyard Brewery Musical Bingo

February 27, 2025
Manchester, NH

Musical Bingo, BINGO is Back!

The Yellow Brick Road to Friendship Buddy Ball 2025 – Guest Form

The Yellow Brick Road to Friendship Buddy Ball Donation

Friendship Glows Buddy Ball Flyer

Friendship Glows Buddy Ball – Roaring Fork Valley

March 8, 2025
Basalt, CO

Join us for our annual Friendship Ball.

Centreville Chantilly Panda Express Flyer copy

Chantilly and Centreville Chapter Fundraising at Panda Express

March 29, 2025
Fairfax, VA

Dine at Panda Express and support Best Buddies!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks: Maine

April & May 2025
Portland & Bangor

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Kate Worden

Breaking Barriers: Meet Kate Worden

In many ways, she’s proving that leadership knows no limits.

Eat Tacos Do Good Flyer

Eat Tacos, Do Good: Giveback Night at Taco Bamba

April 1, 2025
Richmond, VA

Eat tacos and support Best Buddies at Taco Bamba’s giveback night!

Concord Kickoff Party

Concord Friendship Walk Kickoff Party

March 29, 2025
Concord, NH

Kick off the Concord Friendship Walk season with food, prizes, and community!

Ohio University Creates Friendship

Best Buddies Ohio University Creates Friendship!

I’ve gotten to know so many people who are very like-minded, who share the same love for helping people with intellectual disabilities and creating those bonds with them

TD Beach to Beacon 10k

TD Beach To Beacon 10K

August 2, 2025
Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Volunteer or race – either way, you’ll want to get involved!

Meet Margo Meley

Margo Meley: A Shining Star in Best Buddies

Margo Meley, Best Buddies Global Ambassador, promotes inclusion through friendship and leadership

Uknighted Week

Best Buddies Mission Moment: UKnighted Week at Ellington High School

Ellington High celebrated inclusion with games, speeches, and community unity.

BB Eunies Buddies Webinar Flyer

Eunie’s Buddies Online Webinar ” You are not Alone”

February 26, 2025
Webinar

Navigating Support Systems for Parents PANELISTS and Caregivers of Children with Disabilities

Panera Flyer

National Cathedral and St. Alban’s Chapter Giveback Night at Panera Bread

April 5, 2025
Washington, DC

Join us for a giveback night at Panera to support Best Buddies!

Shakeshack flyer

DC Chapters Shake Shack Donation Day

April 7, 2025
Washington, DC

DC Chapters Donation Day at Shake Shack – enjoy great food while supporting Best Buddies!

GMU Panda Express Flyer

George Mason University Chapter Fundraiser at Panda Express

April 7, 2025
Fairfax, VA

Eat at Panda Express and Support Best Buddies!

group of team members around world map

Meet the International Programs & Development Department

Meet the team working to expand out global reach.

Desales Presents Annual Winter Buddy Ball

Buddy Ball Fun!

DeSales University hosts a Buddy Ball for College Chapters in the Lehigh Valley

Ethan at BBLC

Missouri’s Ethan Schroeder Named Global Ambassador for Best Buddies International

Ethan will represent Best Buddies worldwide as a Global Ambassador.

YPC Friendship Walk After Party

Young Professionals Council Boston Friendship Walk After Party

October 18, 2025
Boston, MA

Celebrate with the YPC after the Boston Walk!

Back to Best Buddies

Record-Breaking Back to Best Buddies Training

Chapter leaders from around Michigan gathered for annual training in January 2025.

A man in a black t-shirt and glasses stands in a modern kitchen, holding a measuring cup with flour while preparing food. Various baking ingredients, utensils, and kitchen supplies are spread across the countertop.

Finding ‘Home’ Beyond Four Walls

The journey of Alex P. who moved across state lines to find community at Best Buddies Living.

valentines event

Worcester Citizens PALentines Party

February 12, 2025
Worcester, MA

Join us at the Worcester office for a PALentines party!

karaoke event

Boston Citizens Karaoke Night!

February 22, 2025
Somerville, MA

Join us for a night of karaoke fun!

You are not alone Webinar

Webinar: You’re Not Alone: Navigating Support for Parents and Caregivers of Children with IDD

February 26, 2025
Online Webinar

Join expert panelists and Best Buddies families at our Eunie’s Buddies webinar

Two young women in elegant gowns share a joyful moment outdoors, holding bouquets of fresh flowers. One wears a yellow dress and reacts with excitement, while the other, in a blush pink gown and glasses, smiles warmly. A crowd in formal attire gathers in the background at what appears to be a celebratory event.

Friends Forever: Lara & Josie

Meet Lara and Josie, buddies from sixth grade to high school graduation

Group of Best Buddies Ambassadors

Best Buddies Ambassadors – A Leadership Opportunity

Join Best Buddies Ambassadors!

Two students wearing Best Buddies shirts stand in a school hallway, engaging in conversation and smiling.

Best Buddies chapter in Brewer making an impact on students

In its first year, Brewer is the largest school chapter in Maine.

Alt text: A group of students and advisors in Best Buddies shirts gathered for a photo.

Monacan High School: Building Bridges of Inclusion and Friendship

Inclusion is important, so everyone feels important … and nobody gets left out.

Miss America winner posing with a young woman in a blue dress at a Miss America event, both smiling in front of a branded backdrop.

Best Buddies, big dreams: Grace Davis celebrates Abbie Stockard’s Miss America win

VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. — Grace Davis, a longtime friend of Abbie Stockard, can’t contain her excitement after watching her friend crowned Miss America.

A large group of Best Buddies participants in a conference room posing for a group photo. A screen in the background displays a 'Thank You' message to Philadelphia Insurance Companies.

Back to Best Buddies Training Highlights

Empowering Leaders Through the Recent 2025 Back to Best Buddies Training

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Wisconsin

May 3, 2025
Oconomowoc, WI

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

BBME will receive $30,000 from TD Bank and increased organization awareness.

Best Buddies Maine Named Beneficiary of 2025 TD Beach to Beacon 10K

BBME will receive $30,000 from TD Bank and increased organization awareness.

A young man speaking from a podium and pointing to the crowed

Meet Shane: Best Buddies Global Ambassador

“Being a Best Buddies Global Ambassador means the world to me”

Riders at our Hyannis Port event

Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers Partners with Best Buddies Domestiques

Creating a safe and courteous cycling experience

Party for a Purpose

Party for a Purpose

November 20, 2025
Medford, MA

Join us for a wonderful evening celebrating inclusion!

Trivia Night

City of Vision Civitan Trivia Wednesday

Every Wednesday
Online

Join us every Wednesday for trivia on Zoom!

Parents Only Cocktail Hour

Parent/Caregiver Social Hour

November 20, 2025
Medford, MA

Join us for a fun Parent Social Hour!

Group of Lincoln HS students

Meet KaDell & Suzanne

Highlighting Lincoln High School students for their leadership, resilience, and impact in Best Buddies

A collage of twelve images showcasing various moments and participants from Best Buddies California in 2024. The images depict individuals of diverse backgrounds engaging in activities such as public speaking, celebrating friendships, working in professional settings, participating in sports, and enjoying social gatherings. The photos highlight joy, inclusion, and community engagement.

A Year in Review: Best Buddies California’s Remarkable 2024

As we reflect back on 2024, we celebrate a year of profound growth and achievement for Best Buddies California.

Monthly Ambassador Trainings

Monthly Ambassador Trainings

Monthly
Virtual (Zoom)

Get ready to learn at our monthly Ambassador Training!

Lunch Brunch event

Citizens: Lunch Bunch

Third Thursday of every month
Virtual (Zoom)

Join us for our monthly virtual social hour, Lunch Bunch!

A group of people posing together at a social event, dressed in stylish and festive attire. One individual in the front row holds a plaque, indicating an award or recognition. The background features a lively atmosphere with other attendees and a rock-themed setting.

Historic Staff Leadership Conference 2025: A Global Gathering

The 2025 Staff Leadership Conference marked Best Buddies’ first international staff gathering.

Ted Rives

Team Update

See What is Happening with our Amazing Team

New Global Ambassadors: Carlos Kanahashi and Liane Hinlo!

Congratulations to our New Global Ambassadors: Carlos Kanahashi and Liane Hinlo!

We are excited to announce that Carlos Kanahashi and Lauren “Liane” Hinlo have been selected as Global Ambassadors for Best Buddies International for the 2025-2027 term.

2025 Buddy Ball guest form

Event flyer

2025 Buddy Ball

March 1, 2025
St. Louis, MO

Join local buddies of all ages to celebrate the kick-off of the 2025 Friendship Walk season!!

Friendship Glows Buddy Ball Flyer

Friendship Glows Buddy Ball Donation

March 8, 2025
Basalt, CO

Join us for our annual Friendship Ball.

Boston Celtics Night

Best Buddies Night at the Celtics!

March 10, 2025
Boston, MA

Join us at Best Buddies Night at the Celtics!

paint night

Worcester Citizens Paint Night!

March 13, 2025
Worcester , MA

Join us for paint night at the Worcester office!

thunderbirds flyer

Sensory Friendly Game at Springfield Thunderbirds

March 16, 2025
Boston, MA

Join Best Buddies for a fun hockey game!

Tennessee Friendship Ball

Best Buddies Memphis Friendship Ball

March 1, 2025
Cordova, TN

Join us for the Friendship Ball with pizza, photos, and dancing!

Half hour heros

Half Hour Hero

Monthly
Virtual (Zoom)

Virtual Half Hour Heroes presented by The Ambassadors Program!

Friendship Glows Buddy Ball – Aspen 2025 – Guest Form

Back to Best Buddies Flyer

Back to Best Buddies

January 28, 2025
Virtual

Set the Stage for Back to Best Buddies

Tampa Bay Friendship Ball Flyer

Best Buddies in Tampa Bay Friendship Ball

February 8, 2025
Tampa, FL

Best Buddies Tampa Bay Friendship Ball: A night of friendship, fun, and dancing.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in New York

Multiple Dates
Statewide

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Central Iowa Back to Best Buddies Flyer

Central Iowa Ambassador Training

February 15, 2025
West Des Moines, IA

Speak up and raise awareness about the power of friendship, leadership, and acceptance.

Palm Beach Friendship Ball

Best Buddies in Palm Beach Friendship Ball

February 15, 2025
Jupiter, FL

Best Buddies Palm Beach Friendship Ball: A night of friendship, fun, and dancing.

2024 Impact Report

Best Buddies in Virginia & DC 2024 Annual Report

“Stay involved with the whole Best Buddies community – it’s simply the best!”

Meet Olivia Steckman

Olivia Steckman Named 2024 Program Manager of the Year

Philadelphia Program Manager Awarded the Prestigious Recognition at the 2024 International Staff Conference

Charlie in the Bus

Where Are They Now: Charlie

Charlie’s Journey Towards Independence

Eastern IA Back to Best Buddies

Eastern Iowa Ambassador Training

March 1, 2025
University of Northern Iowa

Help Make a Difference By Being A Powerful Voice For Change!

Friendship Ball Invite

Best Buddies in Central Florida Friendship Ball

March 1, 2025
Longwood, FL

Join us for our annual Friendship Ball.

St. Paddy’s Marathon/Half Marathon/5k

St. Paddy’s Marathon/Half Marathon/5k

March 15, 2025
Des Moines, IA

Join the Fun at the St. Paddy’s Marathon: Volunteer, Cheer, and Make a Difference!

Buddy network event

Citizens: Buddy Network

First Thursday of every month
Virtual (Zoom)

Join us for our monthly virtual social hour, Buddy Network!

BBLC Banner

BBLC 2025

July 18, 2025
Bloomington, IN

BBLC inspires leaders to advocate for Best Buddies through workshops, speakers, and activities.

Franklin County Happy Hour

Best Buddies Citizens in Franklin County Happy Hour

February 27, 2025
Columbus, OH

Join us for a Happy Hour hosted by Best Buddies Citizens!

Friendship Ball

2025 Best Buddies Friendship Ball

March 02, 2025
Nashville, TN

Get ready for this one-of-a-kind event!

Afternoon of Art

Best Buddies Citizens in Cuyahoga County Afternoon of Art

March 9, 2025
Cleveland, OH

Join us for an afternoon of art and fun at the CMA Community Arts Center!

Champions of the Year

Meet Our 2024 Grand Champions

Celebrating the Success of Best Buddies’ Champion of the Year in California

buddy chefs cooking at event

Best Buddies x Chef Dads Table

The Philadelphia Citizens enjoyed an unforgettable night of food and friendship!

Lindley accepting award on stage

Lindley Diecks named Grand Champion at this Years TasteBuds Event

Best Buddies in Pennsylvania Celebrates the Annual TasteBuds Gala raising over $380,000 to promote inclusion

Group of Best Buddies employment partners in from of Best Buddies banner

Second Annual Employer Partner Celebration

Everyone deserves a meaningful job and these employers go above and beyond!

Two elementary school aged girls, Maddie and Caroline, smiling and handing a cash donation to six Best Buddies staff members. State Director Molly Whalen is holding the framed blue, orange and yellow Best Buddies logo.

Friendship Bracelets for Inclusion

Creative and generous elementary school students string together smiles!

Citizens in Butler County March 2025 Graphic

Best Buddies Citizens in Butler County Happy Hour & Friendship Walk Kick-off

March 13, 2025
Hamilton, OH

Join us at Third Eye Brewing Hamilton for a Citizens Happy Hour!

PGH Pens Give Back Game

Penguins Give Back Night

February 4, 2025
Pittsburgh, PA

Join us for an unforgettable evening of hockey and inclusion!

dream it do it

BBNH Dream It, Do It! Create Your Own Vision Board!

January 18, 2025
Concord, NH

BBNH Dream It, Do It! Create Your Own Vision Board

Community Ambassador Training Graphic

Best Buddies Citizens in Cuyahoga County Ambassador Training

June 11, 2025
Westlake, OH

Join us for an engaging session where you’ll learn how to share your story, advocate for inclusion, and bring the Best Buddies mission to life in your community!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

November 7, 2025
Charlotte, NC

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in California

Spring 2025
Statewide

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Three men seated in a TV studio discussing a Best Buddies fundraiser supporting inclusion for people with disabilities in Wisconsin, with a scenic image of Milwaukee’s Art Museum displayed on a screen in the background.

Best Buddies fundraiser supporting inclusion for people with disabilities in Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Kiantis Gallion, a 24-year-old motivational speaker and autism advocate, joined us on Friday, Dec. 27 to chat about his journey as a Best Buddies ambassador for Wisconsin and the organization’s ongoing programs.

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Friendship Ball Getting the Party Started

Best Buddies Friendship Ball

Best Buddies Friendship Ball Shares Our Mission of Inclusion and Fun!

Kristen and Heathers Best Buddies Adult Friendship

Kristen and Heather’s Best Buddies Adult Friendship!

Best Buddies Citizens Longlasting Friendship!

karaoke night flyer

VIRTUAL KARAOKE/LIP SYNC NIGHT

February 20, 2025
Zoom

Karaoke Lip Sync Night, Unleash Your Inner Superstar!

STW Workshop Updated

Spread the Word Inclusion Workshop!

February 22, 2025
Bedford, NH

Spread the Word: Inclusion Workshop!

Best Buddies at the Ballpark in Franklin

Best Buddies Citizens in Franklin County at Huntington Park

June 18, 2025
Columbus, OH

Join Best Buddies Citizens for a fun night at the Clippers game!

Why I Walk Training

Why I walk BBNH Ambassador Training!

April 5, 2025
New Hampshire Institute of Politics

WHY I WALK Ambassador Training!! Share Why You Walk!

indy fuel logo

Best Buddies Indy Fuel Game

January 18, 2025
Fishers, IN

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Best Buddies and the Indy Fuel!

PGH Buddy Ball Invite

Pittsburgh Buddy Ball 2025

March 14, 2025
Pittsburgh, PA

Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, friendship, and inclusion!

A Night Under the Stars

Middle School Buddy Ball

March 14, 2025
King Of Prussia, PA

Dance and make new friends at a night under the stars!

March 15, 2025  
Exton, PA  

Downingtown Best Buddies invites you to their garden party buddy ball!

Garden Party Buddy Ball

March 15, 2025
Exton, PA

Downingtown Best Buddies invites you to their garden party buddy ball!

Candyland

Elementary School Candyland Event

March 28, 2025
Abington, PA

Calling all elementary school students: get ready for a sweet night!

Ursinus College Buddy Ball

Philadelphia College and Citizens Buddy Ball

March 29, 2025
Collegeville, PA

Join us for the annual College and Citizens Buddy Ball on March 29th!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Kentucky

April 19, 2025
Louisville, KY

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Pennsylvania

April 2025
Philadelphia & Pittsburgh

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: New Hampshire

May 2025
Concord & Exeter

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks

April & May 2025
Princeton & North Jersey

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Golf Outing logo

Best Buddies in Wisconsin Golf Outing

June 9, 2025
Sussex, WI

An afternoon of golf, networking, and friendship.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in Indiana

April & May 2025
Indianapolis & Lake County

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: New Mexico

April 2025
Albuquerque & Las Cruces

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Sibling Celebration Flyer

Sibling Celebration

Summer 2025
Lakewood, CO

Best Buddies Colorado and Gigi’s Playhouse Colorado present a celebration just for spectacular siblings!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Michigan

Spring 2025
Detriot, MI

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Two women playing golf

Best Buddies Golf Scramble

July 7, 2025
Louisville, KY

A day out on the links to help fundraise for Best Buddies in Kentucky.

Cyclists riding in Miami

Best Buddies Challenge: New York

Oct. 4, 2025
New York, NY

A once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.

A group of runners jogging on a boardwalk

TCS New York City Marathon

November 2, 2025
New York, NY

Join Best Buddies supporters at the TCS New York City Marathon.

Cyclists riding in Miami

Best Buddies Challenge: Miami

November 15, 2025
Miami, FL

A once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Missouri

May 4, 2025
Kirkwood, MO

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Sensory Friendly Nutcracker

Sensory Friendly Nutcracker

Date: TBD
Boston, MA

Join us for a Family Day at the Ballet!

May 10, 2025
Kearns, UT

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies' mission of inclusion.

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Utah

May 10, 2025
Kearns, UT

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala: Michigan

November 14, 2025
Dearborn, MI

Champion of the Year is a fundraising competition featuring prominent community leaders.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala: Kentucky

October 3, 2025
Louisville, KY

Champion of the Year is a fundraising competition featuring prominent community leaders.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

Fall 2025
Utah

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

November 15, 2025
Albuquerque, NM

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

November 15, 2025
Berkeley Heights, NJ

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

November 14, 2025
Minneapolis, MN

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

Fall 2025
St. Louis

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Great Charity Challenge logo

Best Buddies Selected for the 2025 Great Charity Challenge

Over the past 15 years, the GCC has raised and donated an impressive $21.7 million to local charities.

two participants dancing

Best Buddies in Connecticut Friendship Ball – Black & White

March 9, 2025
Plantsville, CT

Join Best Buddies in Connecticut for food, dancing, and awards.

COY Champions

Alexis Fisher Named 2024 Michigan Champion of the Year

Michigan champion candidates raise more than $150,000

2024 BBVADC Omnium Circus

Best Buddies at Omnium Circus

February 22, 2025
Washington, DC

Enjoy discounted tickets for Best Buddies at Omnium Circus!

Project Blue Paw Heartwarming Visit

The Heartwarming Visit of Project Blue Paw and Best Buddies to North Haven High

Police K-9s and Best Buddies promote inclusion, teamwork, and community connection.

Celebrating Maddy Hanlon-Oviatt

Celebrating Maddy Hanlon-Oviatt, Chapter President Palo Verde High School

Congratulations to Maddy for High School Heroes 2024 BEST SOCIAL IMPACT award.

Plan logo

Thank You PLAN of MA & RI

Thank you to our amazing year-round partner, PLAN of MA and RI!

Bloomberg studio discussion featuring four professionals seated around a modern circular desk, discussing the collaboration between Jersey Mike's and Best Buddies, with financial charts displayed in the background.

Jersey Mike’s Subs & Best Buddies Join Forces

Anthony Shriver, Best Buddies and Peter Cancro, Jersey Mike's Subs speaks with Romaine Bostick and Scarlet Fu about Best Buddies and Blackstone's acquisition of Jersey Mike's Subs. Watch the video below. (Source: Bloomberg)
Cookies and Karaoke Flyer

Holiday Party – Cookies & Karaoke

December 14, 2024
Manchester, NH

Decorate cookies, sing karaoke, and celebrate the season together!

A little girl on the left smiles as she holds a piece of cantaloupe. A woman on the right smiles at her and brushes her chin lovingly. Source: Boston College, Creator: Melanie Rieders Melanie Rieders Melanie Rieders, Copyright: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Office of the Governor, Melanie Rieders 2013

Turning a New Leaf: SLP as an Inclusive Practice for Families

Speech language-pathology, also commonly known as speech therapy, is the practice of promoting communication through speech or other modalities.

Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies participants, and Drake Maye pose together at Jersey Mike’s in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, highlighting the partnership and support for the Best Buddies program.

Pats QB Drake Maye shows support for Best Buddies at Jersey Mike’s in Watertown

WATERTOWN, MASS. (WHDH) – New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye stopped by a Jersey Mike’s location in Watertown on Monday to show his support for Best Buddies, a nonprofit that creates opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

A group headshot of YLC members at Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2024. They are all wearing bright orange shirts that include “YLC Crew” and a yellow smiley face. All of the members are smiling, and two members in the front are holding a sign with the YLC logo.

Meet the YLC 2024-25

A diverse group of young leaders of all abilities who bridge the gap between the student perspective and staff experience for Best Buddies International initiatives.

Meet Dr Kappel

Meet Dr. Kappel

Celebrating Dr. Kappel: A Decade of Dedication to Best Buddies at IUP

Champion of the Year

Philadelphia Champion of the Year

Best Buddies in Pennsylvania Celebrates Inclusion at Champion of the Year Gala

Friendship Ball Invite

Best Buddies in Orlando Friendship Ball Donate

March 01, 2025
Longwood, FL

Best Buddies Orlando Friendship Ball: A night of friendship, fun, and dancing.

Upcoming Events Image

Best Buddies in Orlando Friendship Ball

March 01, 2025
Longwood, FL

Best Buddies Orlando Friendship Ball: A night of friendship, fun, and dancing.

A Very Merry Movie Day Flyer

A Very Merry Movie Day Fundraiser

December 22, 2024
Londonderry, NH

Join us for a holiday movie day with Elf, popcorn, and cocoa!

Volunteer Orientations

Volunteer Orientations

April 9 & 24
Zoom

Register to learn about the different opportunities to support our programs!

Anthony K. Shriver, Fran, and Peter Cancro kneeling together on stage at the Best Buddies Miami Gala, with colorful Best Buddies and Jersey Mike's Subs branding in the background.

Best Buddies International Raises a Record-Breaking $7.2 Million at the Jersey Mike’s Subs Best Buddies Miami Gala

Celebrating Best Buddies International’s Mission of Inclusion and Honoring Best Buddies Global Ambassador Guy Fieri with the 2024 ‘Spirit of Leadership’ Award

Miami, Florida, Nov. 21, 2024 – Best Buddies International hosted its Best Buddies Challenge: Miami the Best Buddies Miami Gala on Saturday, November 16. This year’s Gala raised a record-breaking $7.2 million for Best Buddies programs!

Meet the Wolverines

Including the Wolverines

Michigan football stars are improving the lives of people with IDD.

Best Buddies Middle Schools - Ben and Bennett

Best Buddies Middle Schools: Ben & Bennett

A cheerful friendship formed through Best Buddies at St. Anthony Middle School.

Maureen Cahill Named Best Buddies in Minnesota 2024 Champion of the Year

Maureen Cahill Named Best Buddies in Minnesota 2024 Champion of the Year

Grand Champion raises over $50,000 for Best Buddies mission in Minnesota.

Wyatt Smarz Giving Speech

Wyatt Smarz: A Beacon of Inclusion and Empowerment in Seymour, CT

Wyatt Smarz leads Seymour’s inclusive “This Is Me” event, celebrating individuality.

Empowering Voices of Tomorrow

Empowering Voices of Tomorrow

Best Buddies Speech Coach Experience

Diane Ray Brown Recipient Nancy Merrill Sullivan

Nancy Merrill Sullivan Honored with Best Buddies 2024 Diane Ray Brown Lifetime of Friendship Award

Nancy Merrill Sullivan is a longtime Best Buddies supporter.

Fostering inclusion, building friendships, and creating community at Cochise Elementarys Best Buddies chapter.

Building Friendships, Changing Lives: Cochise Elementary’s Best Buddies Success

Fostering inclusion, building friendships, and creating community at Cochise Elementary’s Best Buddies chapter.

Champion of the Year Gala Brings Community Together for Inclusion

Champion of the Year Gala Brings Community Together for Inclusion

Kendra Verdoni made history at the 2024 Champion of the Year Gala!

Cyclists riding along a scenic waterfront with a city skyline in the background during the Best Buddies Ride and Gala event.

Best Buddies Ride and Gala Raises $7 million

MIAMI (WSVN) – Cyclists took South Florida on a ride for a cause Saturday evening to support the mission statement of Best Buddies.

The event comes in the wake of the organization’s 26th Gala, where it aimed to celebrate and honor the dedication of supporters, participants, and volunteers. Cycling legends Chris Froome, Alberto Contador, Geraint Thomas, and Mark Cavendish were in attendance for the 75 to 100-mile ride.

Eunie's Buddies WHDH Video

Eunie’s Buddies: Program making big difference for new parents of kids living with disabilities

WHDH highlights the power of mentorship in a new feature on Eunie’s Buddies

COY Homecoming Hero

Homecoming: Two Parties One Purpose 2024 Recap

Congratulations to our 2024 Champions of the Year: Sheila and Jaxson!

Guy Fieri with his arms around two Best Buddies participants, Chris Gay and Aaron Malman, smiling together in a black and white photo.

Best Buddies International to Honor Global Ambassador and Celebrity Chef Guy Fieri at the Jersey Mike’s Subs Best Buddies Miami Gala

Miami, Florida, Nov. 13, 2024 – Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is thrilled to present its Best Buddies Challenge: Miami Chaired by Kenneth C. Griffin Charitable Fund and Presented by the Andrew P. Barowsky Foundation, and Mack Cycle & Fitness and the Jersey Mike’s Subs Best Buddies Miami Gala on Saturday, November 16.

Champions

Sheila Stabile and Jaxson Zimmerman Named Best Buddies in Virginia & DC 2024 Champions of the Year

“Jaxson inspires me every day with his kindness and his spirit.”

The Sensory Connection

Gina’s Sensory Connection Project

Connecting communities through sensory support for inclusive learning and development

Sami & Brooke hugging

Sami & Brooke: Best Buddies

Having a Best Buddy like Brooke is amazing. Brooke wants what is best for me.

Graphic with text that says, 'Together We Raised 4.3 Million for Best Buddies.' Below the text is an illustrated Best Buddies logo with two stylized figures in yellow and orange embracing each other. The Jersey Mike’s Subs logo is in the lower left corner, and 'Thank You!' is at the bottom of the image.

Jersey Mike’s Subs Raises $4.3 Million to Support Best Buddies International

MANASQUAN, N.J., Nov. 12, 2024 – Jersey Mike’s Subs and customers across the country raised $4.3 million for Best Buddies International, a nonprofit committed to fostering one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living and family support opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Emcees for North Texas COY

Vince Sims and Hannah Wing Pontikes to Co-Emcee the Upcoming North Texas Gala for Best Buddies

Beloved media figures join Best Buddies North Texas Gala, championing inclusion and community support.

Joshua Felder, a Best Buddies Ambassador in a purple shirt, standing behind a podium with the Best Buddies logo, smiling and pointing forward.

The Possibilities

Meet Joshua Felder, a Global Ambassador and International Board of Directors member for Best Buddies International. He is also the first person with a disability to be a dancer in the Super Bowl LV Halftime Show with The Weeknd and the first to be featured in a Showtime Original. He stars in Woody Harrelson movie Champions and has appeared in The Drew Barrimore Show and the Today Show…

The image shows a group of diverse individuals, some of whom are raising their arms in celebration, standing together beneath the logos of Jersey Mike's Subs and Best Buddies International. The Jersey Mike's Subs logo is on the left, while the Best Buddies logo, featuring two figures outlined in yellow and orange, is on the right.

Jersey Mike’s Subs Donates 20 Percent of Sales To Best Buddies International This Weekend

Jersey Mike’s Subs and Best Buddies International, a nonprofit committed to fostering one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living and family support opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), are partnering to raise funds and awareness for the organization’s mission of inclusion.

Citizens Bowling

Cuyahoga County Citizens Bowling Night!

December 15 2024
Solon, OH

Please Register

10th Annual OJRHS Fall Fest Collage Everybuddy Included

Owen J. Roberts High School Hosts 10th Annual Fall Fest

14 Southeastern Pennsylvania Best Buddies school chapters come together for fall fun

Boston Friendship Walk Having a Blast

Boston Friendship Walk Success!

Thank you to everyone who made the Boston Friendship Walk a Success!

Group of women smiling and holding flowers at the Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala, standing on stage with an award backdrop.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

November 20, 2025
Drexel Hill, PA

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

December Events Calendar

Monthly Events Calendar

December 2024
Statewide

Join your Best Buddies in California for fun virtual and in-person activities!

Participants at the starting line of the 21st Best Buddies Challenge: California, presented by Safeway Foundation, posing under the event banner with cyclists and Best Buddies representatives.

The 21st Best Buddies Challenge: California Presented by Safeway Foundation Raises $2.5 Million for Best Buddies International

MARIN, CA, October 21, 2024 – On Saturday, October 19, Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), hosted its 21st Best Buddies Challenge: California presented by Safeway Foundation.

Interview on WPBF 25 News covering the Best Buddies Champion of the Year celebration, featuring Keefer Quagliano and David Quilleon, alongside host Erin Guy.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year celebration

The Best Buddies Champion of the Year celebration in Florida is an annual event that honors individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Spinny Brand Gifted and Disabled Concert Flyer

Champion of the Year Fundraiser CONCERT

November 20, 2024
Dallas, TX

Champion of the Year Fundraising Concert

Alessia at BBLC

Meet Alessia Revelli!

Meet High School and Now College Chapter President, Alessia Revelli

Citizens Bowling Franklin County

Franklin County Citizens Bowling Event

December 7, 2024
Gahanna, OH

Join us for a fun night of bowling!

Denim and Diamonds Speaking

Champion of the Year Spotlight: Dave and Andrew’s Journey to Victory

Andrew and Dave shine as mission movers in our 2024 Champions of the Year event!

Local Leadership Day

Uniting for Inclusion: Empowering Student Leaders at Best Buddies Local Leadership Training Day

Read about this year’s Local Leadership Training Day, hosted at North Haven High School!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year: Arizona

November 6, 2025
Phoeniz, AZ

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Matt Purfuest at work

Workers with disabilities; Best Buddies Wisconsin helping fill jobs

Matt Purfuerst is one of the nearly 40 individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities Best Buddies Wisconsin has placed in a job.

Matt Purfuest at work

Workers with disabilities; Best Buddies Wisconsin helping fill jobs

Matt Purfuerst is one of the nearly 40 individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities Best Buddies Wisconsin has placed in a job.

2024 BBMARI MDSC and Eunies Buddies Families

Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress and Eunie’s Buddies Collaboration

Two powerful organizations to provide essential services for families of individuals with IDD

Zumbathon

Zumbathon

October 26, 2024
St Paul, MN

Join us for an all-inclusive fun one-hour Zumba class!

Ryan meets Eric

A Smile That Says It All: How CUTX Made Ryan Falcon’s Dream Come True

Ryan Falcon Meets Credit Union of Texas CEO & President Eric Pointer

Laurent and Alex Giveback Week Fundraiser

Fitness for a Cause with Laurent & Alex

October 14-18, 2024
Virtual via Zoom

Let’s have fun with fitness!

Sky zone event

Best Buddies + Sky Zone

October 22, 2024
Springfield, VA

Get Ready for a Celebration of Inclusion!

Rubin at work next to a fire truck

Rubin

Featured Profile RubinInclusive Living program - Resident Before joining Best Buddies Living: Miami in January 2024, Rubin lived with his grandmother, sisters, niece, and nephew. In his new home, Rubin has his own room and bathroom and shares a living and kitchen space. The apartment building is just blocks from [...]
Fran speaking at a podium

Fran

Featured Profile FranLeadership Development program - Global Ambassador "It's a bird! It's a plane! It's Flava Fran! Autistic rapping Jew, overcomer, future homeless shelter founder, and Best Buddies Global Ambassador. I live in Dallas, Texas where I work at a preschool, thanks to the Best Buddies Jobs program and my [...]
Robin at office reception desk

Robin

Featured Profile RobinKlingman & Associates, LLC., New York City, NY Robin currently works as an office manager at Klingman & Associates, LLC, a wealth management firm, in New York City. She has been with the company for over five and a half years, starting as an intern in January 2019 [...]
Yasmin and Aiden with their arms around each other

Yasmin & Aiden

Featured Profile Yasmin & AidenFriendship Program Participants in Virginia From their smiles, easy conversations, and evident friendship, watching Aiden and Yasmin at the Best Buddies Friendship Walk with their high school team perfectly illustrates the Best Buddies mission in action. As seniors at Thomas Edison High School, Aiden and Yasmin [...]
Meet Catherine Pickard

Meet Catherine Pickard!

Volunteer Spotlight: Catherine Pickard – A Decade of Dedication to Best Buddies

Best Buddies participants at Sky Zone event

Sky Zone Announces Best Buddies International as National Do Good Partner

As part of the partnership, Sky Zone to host Friendship Tuesdays, provide BOGO Friendship Jump Passes, and more

South Florida - A group of musical legends teamed up in Doral to use the sport of Pickleball in order to help give back to the Best Buddies International program.

Musicians use pickleball to inspire children in South Florida

South Florida – A group of musical legends teamed up in Doral to use the sport of Pickleball in order to help give back to the Best Buddies International program.

Changemaker Illinois Megan Ensminger

October Changemaker: Megan Ensminger

Read more about Megan, our amazing Jobs participant and Changemaker this month!

Quaker Valley News Article FI

Best Buddies at Quaker Valley High School

Best Buddies is proudly part of Quaker Valley High School’s football team community

Psycle Charity Ride

Charity Ride with Lauren Dorff

October 5, 2024
Westlake, OH

Join us for an indoor cycling event!

Best Buddies Fall Festival Flyer

Fall Feast 2024

November 15, 2024
Morton, IL

Join Best Buddies in Central Illinois for our family-friendly Fall Fest!

Erica and Julians Friendship having a great day

Best Buddies Citizens Spotlight – Erica and Julian

Erica and Julian’s 2.5-Year Bond

Sammy Cover Image

Where Are They Now

Sammy’s Journey in the Culinary World

Yorktown Ice Cream Party Breaking out the Ice Cream

Yorktown High School Ice Cream Party

Yorktown Best Buddies Kicks Off the School Year!

Having a blast

Best Buddies Living comes to Nashville!

Music City Welcomes New Inclusive Residential Community for Adults with and without Disabilities

Having a blast

Best Buddies Living comes to Gainesville!

An inclusive living program that is “at once ordinary and extraordinary” as described by the Washington Post has made it to Gainesville, Florida.

Pennsylvania Living

Best Buddies Living comes to Clemson!

Tiger Town Broadens its Community with New Residential Resource for Adults with and Without Disabilities

Living Comes to Jersey

Living the Dream: How Best Buddies Living is Redefining Inclusion and Independence in New Jersey

Best Buddies Living is unlike any other residential program

Pennsylvania Living

Best Buddies Living comes to State College

State College Introduces New Inclusive Residential Community for Adults with and without Disabilities

AMBASSADOR TRAINING Group

Ambassador Training with WESCO Prepares Participants for TasteBuds

Wesco and Best Buddies in Pennsylvania teamed up to train seven ambassadors in Pittsburgh!

Almost 100 students gather with Best Buddies in Pennsylvania for the annual Local Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day 2024

Almost 100 students gather with Best Buddies in Pennsylvania for the annual Local Leadership Training Day

Bubbles Beer and Bingo

Hannah & Young’s BINGO Night Fundraiser!

September 19, 2024
Chantilly, VA

Support Young and Hannah!

Moxie Winter Party

Best Buddies Utah Friendship Ball Presented by MOXIE

December 13, 2024
Provo, UT

Join us for a fun night on the ice!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala: Delaware

November 14, 2025
Wilmington, DE

Annual fundraising competition and Gala featuring prominent community leaders.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

Fall 2025
Tulsa, OK

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Meet Zara

Meet Zara!

Zara is a Best Buddies State Ambassador and Chapter Secretary!

Brooklin September Changemaker

September Changemaker: Brooklin Heeren

Learn more about our amazing September Changemaker Brooklin!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year: Maryland

October 23, 2025
Hanover, MD

Champion of the Year is a fundraising competition featuring prominent community leaders.

Balloween 2024

Balloween 2024 with DJ Manolo Halloween Costume and Dance Party

October 25, 2024
Merrimack, NH

Balloween All Citizens Members and Ambassadors, and College and High School Chapters Invited

Fount Gives Back

FOUNT Gives Back

October 17, 2024
Westlake, OH

Start your holiday shopping!

Cold Stone flyer featuring two best buddies participants enjoying some ice cream

Cold Stone Creamery Partners with Best Buddies International for September Fundraising Initiative

Cold Stone Creamery® is proud to announce its continued partnership with Best Buddies International.

Friendship Ball Boots and Buddies

Boots and Buddies Ball

November 9, 2024
TACAW The Arts Campus at Willits

Get ready for a fun night at the Boots & Buddies Bash!

Fall Harvest Kick Off Festival

Fall Harvest Kick Off Festival

September 7, 2024
Hampton Falls, NH

Hay Rides, Apple Picking, Creamery, Live Music at 1 PM

Birdies for Buddies

Birdies for Buddies 2024

September 6, 2024
Bedford, OH

Arch Amenities Group Hosts Golf Outing benefiting Best Buddies in Ohio

Fright Night

BBNH Fright Night

October 29, 2024
Virtual

BBNH Fright Night! Join us for a spooktakular time! Music- Games- Villains- Thriller- Fun!

Ambassador Training Part One

Ambassador Training Part 1 EMPOWERED VOICES

November 7, 2024
Manchester, NH

Join us for this unique two-part series for new and experienced Ambassadors! Part 1: EMPOWERED VOICES – From Story to Speech

Leading with Kindness

Leading with Kindness

September 26, 2024
Virtual

BBNH LEADING WITH KINDNESS VIRTUAL EVENT

Friendsgiving

BBNH Friendsgiving

November 21, 2024
Virtual

A celebration of Friendship & Gratitude

Wicked 2024

BBNH CHUNKY’S MOVIE EVENT: WICKED: PART ONE

November 23, 2024
Chunky’s Manchester

BBNH CHUNKY’S MOVIE EVENT: WICKED: PART ONE

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala: Maine

October 24, 2025
Portland, ME

Our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Jake Matt and Ana

Congratulations Jake, Matt, and Ana!

Congratulations to Jake, Matt, Ana, and all the Best Buddies runners!

Zayd and Reyan excel in Best Buddies

Twin Success: Zayd and Reyan Thrive in Best Buddies Transitions Program

Zayd and Reyan excel in Best Buddies Transitions, preparing for IT careers.

Frisco Style Magazine

Building Bonds: The Lifelong Impact of Best Buddies

How One Organization is Transforming Lives Through Friendship and Inclusion

Best Buddies in the news

The Community Difference Podcast – Frisco

Best Buddies North Texas – featured guest

Ambassador Training Part Two

Ambassador Training Part 2 EMPOWERED VOICES

December 6, 2024
Londonderry, NH

Ambassador Training Part 2: EMPOWERED VOICES – From Speech to Social Media

Participants on stage at the Best Buddies International Gala En Blanc, part of the Champion of the Year fundraiser. The group, dressed in white, stands in front of a large screen displaying the event name. The scene reflects the celebratory and formal nature of the event, highlighting the organization's efforts to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mountain Mayhem: Gala en Blanc for Best Buddies

Over the 4th of July weekend, Best Buddies International hosted its Champion of the Year fundraiser at Hotel Jerome with the theme of a Gala en Blanc.

Founded in 1987 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver when he was a student at Georgetown University, the organization has been dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) since the beginning.

Two Best Buddies Friendship program participants fist bump in a school cafeteria.

‘Everybody deserves a friend’: WSMV4′s Surprise Squad blesses Best Buddies program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – The Best Buddies nonprofit became the latest recipient of a big surprise from WSMV4′s Surprise Squad.

The organization creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Group of enthusiastic participants from the 2024 Best Buddies Leadership Conference posing together on a bus. They are smiling and wearing matching conference t-shirts with slogans like 'Life is Better with Friends' and 'You Belong.' The diverse group includes individuals with and without disabilities, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the event.

Generation ROC: Students with disabilities shine at the Best Buddies conference

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — A group of hardworking and unique students returned from a major learning experience to teach people with disabilities inclusion and independence.

Meeting some of your best friends and growing together is what the Best Buddies program is all about. This dedicated group of local students just returned from putting those words into action at an international leadership conference in Bloomington, Indiana.

BBLC Recap Coming Together

Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2024

Everybuddy Belongs

Return to BBLC Group Image

Maryland Attendees Shine at 2024 Best Buddies Leadership Conference

Maryland leaders return inspired from the 2024 BBLC!

Citizens Trivia Night

FOR CITIZENS: Ballston Local Bar Trivia

August 28, 2024
Arlington, VA

Casual trivia night at Ballston Local!

LC Recap

Minnesota Delegation Attends Best Buddies Leadership Conference in Indiana

A weekend of inspiration, advocacy and friendship at Best Buddies Leadership Conference.

WROC Generation Roc Screencapture

Generation ROC: Students with disabilities shine at the Best Buddies conference

Best Buddies WNY talks about Leadership Conference

Friends for Life

August Changemaker: Glenbard East High School Chapter

Congratulations to Glenbard East for being selected as our Changemaker for August!

Kendall and Josh Playing Soccer at UVA

Best Buddies x Washington Spirit

September 7, 2024
Washington, DC

Celebrate Disability Awareness Day and USA’s Gold Medal Superstars!

A group of runners jogging on a boardwalk

Team Best Buddies: Bank of America Chicago Marathon

October 13, 2024
Chicago, IL

Join Team Best Buddies at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Citizens Indoor Rock Climbing Event

FOR CITIZENS: Indoor Rock Climbing Event

September 15, 2024
Alexandria, VA

Health & Wellness Citizens Event

Citizens Trivia Night

FOR CITIZENS: Ballston Local Bar Trivia

September 25, 2024
Arlington, VA

Casual trivia night at Ballston Local!

BBLC A life changing experience

Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2024

A Life-Changing Experience for Inclusion Leaders

Project Search Launch Sacramento

Best Buddies to Launch Project SEARCH in Sacramento

Aiming to Lower the Unemployment Rate of Individuals with Disabilities

Upcoming Events Image

Fall Friendship Dance Roaring Fork Valley – Boots and Buddies

Novmeber 9, 2024
Roaring Fork, CO

Get ready for a night of fun at the Boots & Buddies Bash

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year: Wisconsin

November 6, 2025
Milwaukee, WI

Join us as we crown Wisconsin’s Best Buddies Champion of the Year.

Everybuddy Belongs LC

Everybuddy Belongs: The Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2024

BBLC 2024 inspired global leaders, fostering inclusion and lifelong friendships for change.

Jimmy Howley at AMB

Meet Jimmy Howley: Two Thumbs up for Best Buddies!

Jimmy Howley thrives in Best Buddies, building friendships and growing in confidence.

BBLC Group Photo

Building Connections: BBAZ at the 2024 Leadership Conference

Best Buddies in Arizona – engaged in learning, fun, and growth at 2024 Leadership Conference.

Fitting In

Being a Buddy: Meet Isabel Gracon

I fell in love with the program and the people involved.

Best Buddies at the Nationals

Best Buddies Day at the Ballpark

September 29, 2024
Washington, DC

Join Best Buddies VA & DC at Nationals Park!

October 26, 2024
Richmond, VA

Cheer on the Kickers with your Best Buddies for Fan Appreciation Night!

Richmond Kickers Soccer Club vs Charlotte Independence

October 26, 2024
Richmond, VA

Cheer on the Kickers with your Best Buddies for Fan Appreciation Night!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Connecticut

Spring 2025
Hartford & Fairfield, CT

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Galas in Illinois

October 2025
Central IL & Chicago

Join us at the Champion of the Year Galas, an event benefiting Best Buddies in Illinois.

Homecoming and Champion of the year logos

Homecoming: Two Parties, One Purpose

November 1, 2024
Washington D.C.

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies participant at podium

Local Leadership Training Day

September 22, 2024
Edina, MN

Local Leadership Training Day for school chapter leaders and advisors.

Michelle and Courtney at BBLC

Buddies Navigate BBLC Together

We interviewed Michelle & Courtney at BBLC to learn about their friendship!

Celebrating International Friendship Day with Best Buddies Nevada

Celebrating International Friendship Day with Best Buddies Nevada

Featuring Buddy Pair from Palo Verde Best Buddies Chapter, Maddy and Jenny

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala

Fall 2025
Statewide

An annual fundraising competition featuring prominent community leaders.

Local Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day

September 21, 2024
Las Vegas, NV

Feel empowered and prepared to guide our mission at your school.

Richard Nakai, Best Buddies Ambassador

Fall Ambassador Training – Telling Your Story – Part 1

October 1, 2024
Virtual

Part 1 of a two-part Ambassador training series on disability advocacy.

Columbia Pike Movie

Columbia Pike Movie

August 9, 2024
Arlington, VA

Enjoy the summer weather at Arlington Mill Community Center for this outdoor movie event!

BBPA at BBLC

Best Buddies Leadership Conference: Pennsylvania’s Inspiring Recap

Celebrating Inclusion and Leadership, Pennsylvania’s delegation attends the 2024 Best Buddies Leadership Conference.

BBPA Meet Nikki Fenello

Meet Nikki Fenello

Nikki Fenello’s impactful journey includes roles as a state ambassador, participant, and board member.

BBMARI BBLC Recap Image 1

Leadership Conference 2024 Recap

Massachusetts and Rhode Island had an amazing time at the 2024 Leadership Conference!

BBVADC Leadership Conference Attendees

School Programs Monthly Call (Students and Advisors ONLY!)

Multiple Times
Zoom

Monthly Call for Best Buddies School Chapters

Two women sit on the grass, engaged in a pleasant conversation, with a young girl with Down syndrome sitting between them, playing with a blue toy. They are enjoying a serene moment outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery.

Best Buddies Launches Eunie’s Buddies: A Lifeline for Families with Children with Special Needs

When a family receives the earth-shattering news that their child has an intellectual or developmental disability, the whirlwind of emotions can feel devastating. In the span of a few minutes, dreams shatter while questions and fears multiply rapidly. An experience that was supposed to be filled with joy and anticipation pivots sharply to confusion and grief.

But what if amid that swirling chaos, a fellow parent who had walked this path showed up simply to listen and say, “Me too – you are not alone”?

Richard Nakai, Best Buddies Ambassador

Fall Ambassador Training – Telling Your Story – Part 2

October 8, 2024
Edina, MN

Part 2 of a two-part Ambassador training series on disability advocacy.

Dreaming Big without Limits Fashion Show

Dreaming Big Without Limits Fashion Show

October 17, 2024
Stillwater, MN

Dreaming Big Without Limits Fashion Show to support Best Buddies Minnesota.

Thank You Thunderbirds

Thunderbirds Charities Grants $25,000 to Best Buddies in Arizona

Best Buddies Arizona receives generous grant from Thunderbirds Charities to support school friendship programs.

Katelyn Speaking

Katelyn McKivergan Selected to Speak at BBLC Closing Ceremonies

The BBNH State Ambassador inspired the crowd of 2,000 with her speech.

Disability Awareness and Etiquette Training

Disability Awareness & Etiquette Training

October 29, 2024
Virtual

Join us for a one-hour training on Disability Awareness and Etiquette.

Plan logo

PLAN (Planned Lifetime Assistance Network)

PLAN of MA & RI is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to proudly serve people with disabilities.

Annual Citizens Friendsgiving Potluck

FOR CITIZENS: Annual Citizens Friendsgiving Potluck

November 13, 2024
Tysons, VA

Celebrate Thanksgiving with your Best Buddies friends at our 3rd Annual Citizens Friendsgiving Potluck!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

Oct. 4, 2025
Las Vegas, NV

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies Night at Victory Field

Best Buddies Night at Victory Field

August 3, 2024
Indianapolis, IN

Get your tickets for Best Buddies Night at Victory Field!

A colorful banner for the Best Buddies Leadership Conference (BBLC) 2024, featuring the slogan

Leaders From Around the World to Unite in the Name of Inclusion at the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference in Bloomington, Indiana

Nearly 2,000 student leaders, volunteers, and staff from Best Buddies International’s programs around the world, will participate in the event July 19-21 at Indiana University in Bloomington. The conference will prepare the organization’s students leaders to be strong, passionate forerunners as they promote the mission of Best Buddies in their local schools and communities and inspire the world one person at a time.

Meet Naia Headshot

Meet Naia!

She’s ready to show the world what people with disabilities can do!

Pauls Path to Professional Growth

Paul’s Path to Professional Growth

A Best Buddies Jobs Program Success Story

30 Years in Pennsylvania Banner

Celebrating 30 years of Best Buddies in Pennsylvania

Celebrating three decades of fostering friendships and inclusion for individuals with IDD.

Beach Day Flyer

Best Buddies New Hampshire Beach Day!

July 28, 2024
Newbury, NH

Beach Day!! At Mount Sunapee State Park!!

Central Ohio Ice Cream Social

Central Ohio Ice Cream Social

July 30, 2024
Columbus, OH

Join us for an Ice Cream social with Best Buddies Members in Central Ohio!

Hyannis Port Getting Started

Best Buddies CT takes HP 2024

Team Cheshire rides 50 miles, raises $21,000 for Best Buddies inclusivity efforts.

Phillies Night 2024 Instagram

Best Buddies Phillies Night

September 10, 2024
Philadelphia, PA

Join us for “Best Buddies at the Ballpark” with the Philadelphia Phillies on September 10th!

Goodbuddies Haine Elementary Walk

Seneca Valley School District hosts a Best Buddies Friendship Walk

Haine Elementary holds first Best Buddies Walk to support Pennsylvania programs

Giant Eagle Award

Celebrating Inclusivity: Best Buddies Wins Community Champions Award

Best Buddies wins Community Champions award presented by WQED and Giant Eagle for promoting inclusion and friendship for all.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

May 4, 2025
Greenville, SC

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Oregon

May 10, 2025
Hillsboro, OR

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

November 21, 2025
Greenville, SC

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Fisher Cats Event

BBNH Fisher Cats Night!

August 10, 2024
Manchester, NH

Join Best Buddies for a New Hampshire Fisher Cats game!

Mikey and Avery Friendship at the Game

Best Buddies Friendship: Mikey and Avery

Through my friendship with Mikey, I have learned what attributes I should look for in a friend…

Friendship Walks Raised 180K Walking

Friendship Walks Raise $180,000 for Inclusion!

The Concord and Exeter Walks Were Incredible Celebrations of Inclusion!

Celebrating Byrons Legacy Group of Friends

Celebrating Byron’s Legacy at Team One

Best Buddies Job Participants Shine at Team One Mock Interview Workshop

Northeast Ohio Advisor Meetup

Northeast Ohio Advisor Meet Up

August 7, 2024
Cleveland, OH

Join us to connect with other Best Buddies Friendship Chapter Advisors in Northeast Ohio.

Max and Karen's Best Buddies Journey Friends

The Melody of Friendship

Max and Karen’s Best Buddies Journey

Friendship Walk Recap San Diego

2024 Friendship Walk Highlights

California’s first year hosting five walks was a HUGE success!

Cbus Coy 24 Charis Article Header

Alex Rogers and Sharla Thomas named Chairs of the 2024 Champion of the Year Gala: Columbus

We are excited to announce Alex Rogers and Sharla Thomas as Chairs of our 2024 Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala: Columbus.

A young woman with short hair, wearing a white shirt, talking on a phone in an office setting with colorful abstract figures in the background.

Best Buddies Jobs: A Model for Integrated Employment Opportunities

The disability rights movement has made significant strides over the past decades, fighting against discrimination to advance equal access and inclusion. An ongoing challenge, however, remains expanding competitive integrated employment…

Cleveland Gala Chairs

Mary Beth & John Lee and Katie Klimek named Chairs of the 2024 Champion of the Year Gala: Cleveland

We are excited to announce Katie Klimek, and Mary Beth and John Lee as this year’s Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala: Cleveland Chairs.

Flynn Erickson Rides for Inclusion with Connie Mehlman

Miami University Graduate Flynn Erickson Rides for Inclusion at Best Buddies Challenge

Looking back on college, many of my favorite memories involve spending time with Tommy

Advisor Meet Up Flyer

Central Ohio Advisor Meet Up

August 7, 2024
Zoom

Join us to connect with other Best Buddies Friendship Chapter Advisors in Central Ohio.

COY kick off flyer

Citizens & Champion of the Year Kickoff Art Party

August 14, 2025
Hamilton, OH

Join us for an art party & Champion kickoff with Citizens in Butler County

Southwest Ohio Activity Day

Summer Social in Southwest Ohio

August 10, 2024
Trenton, OH

Join us for a summer activity day with Best Buddies Members in Southwest Ohio!

August Yoga in the Park

Yoga in the Park

August 18, 2024
Lakewood, OH

Join us for “Yoga in the Park” with Best Buddies in Northeast Ohio!

Cyclists participating in the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, with two riders from Team Aurum fist bumping in the foreground.

25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation, and the TJX Companies, Inc., Raises More Than $4 Million to Support People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Boston, June 11, 2024 – This year, the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port brought together over 1,000 participants in a spectacular cycling, running, and walking fundraiser. Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation, and The TJX Companies, Inc. .The event spanned from Boston to Hyannis Port, raising over $4 million for Best Buddies International.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala

November 14, 2025
Portland, OR

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century, and Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), today announce an ambitious program to develop Best Buddies inclusive commercial playgrounds and Buddy Benches. Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation playgrounds will be designed to provide a new standard of best-in-class inclusive and accessible playground equipment for all ages and abilities. This first of its kind partnership was developed through Agency Shmagency, an innovative sales and marketing consultancy with a global client roster.

Miracle Recreation and Best Buddies International Announce Groundbreaking Playground Design Partnership, Creating a Global Standard for Inclusive Play

Miracle® Recreation and Best Buddies International announce a groundbreaking partnership to create inclusive playgrounds and Buddy Benches, setting a new standard for accessibility. Developed through Agency Shmagency, this initiative aims to provide inclusive and accessible equipment for people of all ages and abilities.

Cleveland Kick Off Party Invitation

Champion of the Year: Cleveland Kick-Off

August 22, 2024
Cleveland, OH

Join us for a unique event and learn new skills!

Friendship Walk Recap Sam and Brandon Arch

Life is Better With Best Buddies!

2024 Best Buddies Friendship Walks Recap

Meet Plymouth White Marsh Advisor Jill Ruggerio Class Image

Celebrating the Incredible Impact of Jill Ruggiero: An Outstanding Best Buddies Advisor

Meet Plymouth White Marsh Advisor and Parent, Jill Ruggiero

Taste Buds Juniors Participants

Taste Buds Junior Event at Baldwin High School: A Delicious Success!

On May 16th, Balwin High School and Best Buddies in Pennsylvania teamed up to host Taste Buds Junior

PHLY Group Photo

Thank you PHLY Insurance!

Celebrating PHLY Insurance, a member of Tokio Marine Group: A Valued Partner in Best Buddies’ Mission

Taco Bell Foundation Logo

Taco Bell Foundation Awards $75,000 Grant to Best Buddies in Arizona

Taco Bell Foundation awards $75,000 to Best Buddies, enhancing inclusivity and leadership for IDD.

Quiz For a Cause Flyer

Quiz For a Cause Giveback Night

June 16, 2024
Dallas, TX

Quiz For a Cause

BBPA wins Community Outreach Award

Best Buddies in Pennsylvania wins Community Outreach Award

Our Philadelphia office took home the King of Prussia District 2024 Community Outreach Award

Anthony K. Shriver, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Best Buddies International poses with a Best Buddies program participant in Hyannis Port, MA.

7NEWS team members join hundreds of bikers for annual Best Buddies Challenge

HYANNIS, MASS. (WHDH) – Members of the 7NEWS team and hundreds of other riders hit the road Saturday for the Best Buddies Challenge, a bike ride to raise money for the organization.

Drake Maye is being interviewed by WSVN Channel 7 reporter.

Patriots QB Drake Maye says it’s an ‘honor’ to work with Best Buddies ahead of bike challenge

BOSTON (WHDH) – Saturday kicks off the annual Best Buddies bike ride to Hyannis Port. New Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is the honorary chair of this year’s Best Buddies Challenge.

Willow Canyon Chapter Award

Willow Canyon High School Wins Top Overall Chapter

Willow Canyon Best Buddies Club named Top Overall Chapter

Plant n Sip Flyer

Plant & Sip – For Families in the Disability Community

August 10, 2024
Frisco, TX

Plant and Sip for Families!

BB in the News DC Now

Best Buddies in the News

Check out our press features leading up to the 2024 Friendship Walk!

UVA Award Reveiving the Award From Secret Seven Society

Best Buddies at the University of Virginia Receives Prestigious James Earle Sargeant Award from Secret Seven Society

The Seven Society recognized UVA for “embracing differences and fostering care and love.”

Friendship Walk Article an amazing day

Friendship Walk: A Triumph of Inclusion and Community

Over 1,000 participants raised more than $140,000, showcasing the power of community.

Celine Paolo Arnobit

Celebrating the Power of Friendship: Paolo and Celine Arnobit’s Journey

A special bond flourishes within the Best Buddies in Hawai’i community.

best buddies speciality license plate

Best Buddies Specialty License Plate

Available now for purchase!

Citizens Park Cookout

Citizens in Franklin County Park Cookout

June 8, 2024
Columbus, OH

Join us at Friendship Park to grill out and celebrate friendship!

Best Buddies Global Ambassador and Journalist, Savannah Guthrie sits down in a TV interview with Founder, Chairman & CEO, Anthony Kennedy Shriver.

Best Buddies’ Anthony K. Shriver Featured on NBC’s Today Show

On May 21, Anthony K. Shriver, Founder and CEO of Best Buddies International, was interviewed by Savannah Guthrie on NBC’s Today Show. They discussed Best Buddies’ mission to foster inclusion for the IDD community and the new initiative, Eunie’s Buddies.

First Person to Use an AAC Device on Dallas Morning Show

Best Buddies North Texas Ambassador First Person to Use an AAC Device on Dallas Morning Show

Best Buddies North Texas Ambassador First Person to Use an AAC Device on Dallas Morning Show

Broomfield HS Graduation

Celebrating Seniors in Colorado!

Excerpt from Nicole Brady from Denver 7

Spring Friendship Walks Having a great time

A Successful Spring Friendship Walk Season

Massachusetts and Rhode Island absolutely crushed their Friendship Walks this spring!

Life is Better with Best Buddies

Best Buddies in CT 2024 Friendship Walks: Life is Better with Best Buddies

A beautiful start to a new world of inclusion and Friendship, one step at a time!

Best Buddies and Project Blue Paw Bridging Communities

Celebrating Community and Connection at Moody Elementary: Best Buddies and Project Blue Paw

Moody Elementary fosters inclusivity through Best Buddies and Project Blue Paw collaboration

Air and Anchor Featured Image

Air and Anchor Give Back Night

May 30, 2024
Cranston, RI

Join us at Air and Anchor in Rhode Island!

2024 Feature Grads Banner

2024 Graduates Feature

Congratulations to our 2024 Best Buddies Graduates!

Parker Lane State Director for a Day at his desk

A Day of Leadership and Advocacy for Best Buddies in Arizona

Parker Lane tops Friendship Walk fundraisers and Wins Opportunity to Act as State Director for the Day

JQES in the Classroom

Josiah Quincy Elementary School provides critical disability education for students

JQES is a shining example that you are never too young to learn about inclusion and disability justice.

BBLC Banner

Best Buddies Leadership Conference is Right Around the Corner!

Find out all of the latest information for this year’s Leadership Conference!

Biancas Project Success

Bianca’s Project Search Success Equals Job at Jackson Health System

Bianca participated in Project Search and now happily employed at Jackson Health!

2024 Feature Awards Banner

Best Buddies in Ohio Chapter Awards 2023-2024

We are proud to honor these leaders who have inspired greatness in our community this year.

Citizens Paint Night Event

Citizens Paint Night

May 23, 2024
Severn, MD

Meet friends for a fun night of painting!

Gala Announcement Christie and Elbert Choi

Best Buddies North Texas Announces 2024 Champion of the Year Gala

Best Buddies North Texas Announces 2024 Champion of the Year Gala

Ella and Bella In Class

Best Buddies: Ella and Bella

Ella’s Journey of Friendship and Personal Growth with Bella

Friendship Walk Recap West Chester University Joins In

Best Buddies Friendship Walks: A Pennsylvania Recap

Best Buddies in Pennsylvania Celebrates over 2500 walkers statewide at this year’s friendship walk’s!

Fox Lane High School

Fox Lane High School Highlight

“These friendships are extending beyond the walls of Fox Lane High School”

Bens Transformative 5 Year Journey

Ambassador to Advisory Board Member

Ben’s Transformative 5-Year Journey with Best Buddies

Nashville, TN, May 6, 2024 - Best Buddies International hosted its 7th Annual Best Buddies’ Celebration of Mothers this past Saturday, May 4, in Nashville, TN. The event celebrated mothers all around the world...

Best Buddies International Host Its 7th Annual Celebration Of Mothers In Nashville, TN

Nashville, TN, May 6, 2024 – Best Buddies International hosted its 7th Annual Best Buddies’ Celebration of Mothers this past Saturday, May 4, in Nashville, TN. The event celebrated mothers all around the world…

Quarterback Drake Maye throwing a football.

New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye Named Honorary Chair Of 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented By Jersey Mike’s Subs, Shaw’s And Star Market Foundation And The TJX Companies, Inc.

Best Buddies International is pleased to announce that New England Patriots Quarterback Drake Maye will serve as Honorary Chair of the 25th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

networking event flyer

Cleveland Marketing and Networking Event at Fathom

August 22, 2024
Cleveland, OH

Join us for a unique event and learn new skills!

Outside alongside a wooded fence overlooking a pond and wooded area, there are 4 people posing for a picture. From left to right: Bo and his wife Ellen Boyer, who proudly holds a picture of their daughter Sadie Brett Boyer, standing alongside Caroline and Country music artist Luke Bryan.

Best Buddies International to Host Its 7th Annual Celebration of Mothers in Nashville, TN

Organization Will Officially Launch Its Eunie’s Buddies Program to Empower Families on Their Journey of Raising a Child With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Nashville, TN, May 1, 2024

Gala Cover Image

Society Notebook: Best Buddies celebrates its special friendships

“I want people with IDD to be more involved with the things we get to do that they might otherwise not.”

Best Buddies in the news

WDEA interviews Cara Maloney about BBME in Central Maine

Central Maine is next up for Best Buddies’ expansion plan, and we’ve already made great strides in 2024!

Prom Group Photo

The Shining Stars Ball brings together a community

The Courageous Steps Project & Best Buddies UMaine: An Enchanted Evening, Shining Stars Ball

Manny's Story

Best Buddies Jobs: Manny’s Story

“I want to work at Amwins for life and retire here.”

Michael Ambassador

Best Buddies Ambassadors: Michael’s Story

“I am proud to be an advocate for Best Buddies.”

Caroline Cardenas with daughter

Caroline Cardenas

Featured Profile Caroline CardenasFamily Support Mentor There is nothing quite like connecting with someone who knows what you’re going through. With all the blessings that our daughter’s IDD has brought our family, the only challenge we had was that there was no handbook on what to do. The support of [...]
Honor a Grad

Honor a Graduate

May 11, 2024
Tysons, VA

Let’s come together to honor and celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our graduating class!

Citizens Coffee Hour

Citizens Coffee Chat

April 25, 2024
Columbus, OH

Join us for a chat and a hot beverage at the Columbus office!

Jackson BH Group

We all have so much in common

South Portland High School alumnus and Portland Citizen Jackson Bowie-Haskell shares his thoughts on Autism Awareness Month.

May Monthly Events Calendar

Monthly Events Calendar

May 2024
Statewide

Join us for fun virtual and in-person activities!

CFNV 24 grantee

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia Grantee

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia Grantee

Walking the Path of Inclusion Group Image

Walking the Path of Inclusion: University of Dayton’s Best Buddies Friendship Chapter Leads the Way

Families, friends, and dogs came together in a wonderful expression of togetherness and inclusion.

Meet Sam Running with Friends

Meet Sam, this year’s Washington, DC Friendship Walk Co-Grand Marshal

“I can’t wait to lead everybody!”

Alex and Sharas Open Mic Event

Alex & Sharla’s Open Mic

August 25, 2024
Columbus, OH

Live performances from local artists | Appetizers | 50/50 Raffle! | Great time for a great cause!

Ambassador Training Flyer

Central Ohio Community Ambassador Training

August 26, 2024
Hilliard, OH

This is an opportunity to learn how to speak about Best Buddies within your community.

Joshua Felder, Best Buddies Ambassador, stands alongside two hockey players on the ice rink, captivating a large crowd.

Joshua Felder’s Still Got Next

Josh Felder is still getting the hang of his superpowers. He’s starred in a feature film, sure. Danced alongside The Weeknd, yes. But if you talk to Felder, this is only the beginning.

Kendra Scott Gives Back Richmond

Shine Bright, Do Good: Richmond

April 19, 2024
Richmond, VA

RICHMOND, VA: KENDRA SCOTT GIVES BACK EVENT

The Detroit Pistons hosted a Best Buddies Night with Best Buddies in Michigan on March 9 when they took on the Dallas Mavericks. 

Detroit Pistons Host Best Buddies Night 

The Detroit Pistons hosted a Best Buddies Night with Best Buddies in Michigan on March 9 when they took on the Dallas Mavericks. 

Best Buddies International hosted the Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami on April 6 at loanDepot Park and raised $345,000.

Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami Raises $345,000 for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Best Buddies International hosted the Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami on April 6 at loanDepot Park and raised $345,000.

Apr Mission Moment Avon High School

Best Buddies making a difference at Avon High School

Avon High’s Best Buddies program: fostering inclusivity, friendship, and joy for all.

Izzy and Alex began their journey within the Friendship Program in Virginia and Washington, D.C. last year and were quickly matched in a one-to-one friendship thanks to their similarities.

Friendship Friday: Izzy and Alex

Izzy and Alex began their journey within the Friendship Program in Virginia and Washington, D.C. last year and were quickly matched in a one-to-one friendship thanks to their similarities.

Friendship Walk Kick off Flyer

NH Friendship Walks Kickoff!

April 11, 2024
Epping, NH

Join us for our celebration of the 2024 Friendship Walk season!

Spring Fling Dance Party

Best Buddies in New Hampshire Spring Fling

April 19, 2024
Weare, NH

Dance the Night Away with DJ Manolo and Best Buddies in New Hampshire

Best Buddies Friendship Walk WLWT Awareness Article

Best Buddies Friendship Walk to Celebrate Inclusion in Southwest Ohio

A free event in Hamilton, Ohio later this month is raising awareness and generating support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Spring Ambassador Training Group Photo

Spring Ambassador Training: Empowering Advocates for Inclusion with BNP Paribas

Our Philadelphia office teamed up with BNP Paribas to train four ambassadors.

Buddy Ball Collage

Best Buddies In Pennsylvania: Buddy Balls

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Students Gather to Celebrate Best Buddies Month at our Buddy Balls

A Lifeline of Happiness

Star Participant: Caroline Sweeny – A Beacon of Friendship and Inclusion with Best Buddies

Caroline Sweeny: Best Buddies leader, fostering inclusivity, friendship, and lifelong connections.

Woman smiling outside her workplace.

Workplace Wednesday: Elaina

Elaina had long been searching for meaningful and inclusive employment and thanks to the Best Buddies Jobs Program, she got it.

Two men wearing aprons with the Tastebuds logo

TasteBuds Pittsburgh

December 8, 2025
Pittsburgh, PA

TasteBuds is back! Check out this unique tasting event supporting our local mission.

Kendra Scott Gives Back

Shine Bright, Do Good

April 19, 2024
Multiple Locations

KENDRA SCOTT GIVES BACK EVENT

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Hawaii

Spring 2025
O’ahu, Maui, & Hawai’i

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Marion Goldman tells the story of how her son, Michael, has succeeded with the help of the Best Buddies Jobs Program to celebrate Autism Awareness Month.

Best Buddies and Our Family: An Autism Awareness Month Story

Marion Goldman tells the story of how her son, Michael, has succeeded with the help of the Best Buddies Jobs Program to celebrate Autism Awareness Month.

mountain view of aspen

Best Buddies Breakaway Camp: Aspen

Sept. 14-18, 2025
Aspen, CO

A once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.

The Best Buddies Jobs Program is celebrating its 30th anniversary and was recently highlighted by the Daily Express.

Best Buddies Jobs: A Model for Integrated Employment Opportunities

The Best Buddies Jobs Program is celebrating its 30th anniversary and was recently highlighted by the Daily Express.

For people with disabilities, going to a prom is not a guarantee, which is where the Friendship Ball comes in.

Best Buddies Hosts Friendship Balls Across the Country

For people with disabilities, going to a prom is not a guarantee, which is where the Friendship Ball comes in.

Best Buddies in Arizona was recently highlighted in celebration of Best Buddies Month and Best Buddies' 35th anniversary.

Best Buddies in Arizona Highlighted for Best Buddies Month

Best Buddies in Arizona was recently highlighted in celebration of Best Buddies Month and Best Buddies’ 35th anniversary.

The Best Buddies Friendship chapter at Palatine High School was recently highlighted for making an impact on their high school.

Best Buddies at Palatine High School Spotlighted for Creating Friendships

The Best Buddies Friendship chapter at Palatine High School was recently highlighted for making an impact on their high school.

Best Buddies Friendship Program Spotlight

The Best Buddies Friendship Program in Spotlight

ABC 15 shines light on Best Buddies program, fostering inclusion and friendship.

Bollywood Dance Experience

Bollywood Jam Fundraiser

April 10, 2024
Arlington, VA

An exciting chance to learn new dance moves!

Inclusion is always something to celebrate, and the Best Buddies Friendship chapter at Higley High School can throw quite the party, as they did at their yearly Inclusion Carnival.

Best Buddies at Higley High School Hosts Inclusive Carnival

Inclusion is always something to celebrate, and the Best Buddies Friendship chapter at Higley High School can throw quite the party, as they did at their yearly Inclusion Carnival.

At Olympic Heights High School, Best Buddies is making a huge difference, creating a culture of inclusion and acceptance.

Best Buddies at Olympic Heights High School is Creating a Culture of Inclusion

At Olympic Heights High School, Best Buddies is making a huge difference, creating a culture of inclusion and acceptance.

Celebrating Friendship Dave and Margaret

Celebrating Friendship and Community: The Best Buddies Journey in Hawai’i

From Best Buddies Bike Ride to Hawai’i Friendship Walk

Boston Public Schools Friendship Ball

A Look Into the Boston Public Schools Friendship Ball

Enjoy more pictures and a recap about the BPS Friendship Ball!

Andi Allen, Wendy Oliver, and Daniel G

VoLo Foundation – Empowering People with IDD Through Climate Initiatives

Thanks to VoLo, individuals with IDD are learning about climate initiatives.

Best Buddies participants were recently featured on the Today Show for World Down Syndrome Day.

Best Buddies Participants Featured on “Today Show” for World Down Syndrome Day

Best Buddies participants were recently featured on the Today Show for World Down Syndrome Day.

Rubin Wilson, an administrative support staffer, has been an important member of the Hialeah Fire Department for the past five years.

Best Buddies Jobs Participant Finds a Career with the Hialeah Fire Department

Rubin Wilson, an administrative support staffer, has been an important member of the Hialeah Fire Department for the past five years.

young female best buddies participant being crowned

Celebrating Inclusivity

Uniting Hearts and Creating Lasting Memories Together

Ambassador at christmas event

PECO’s Energy Force Ambassador Program Illuminates the Path to Energy Efficiency While Empowering Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Best Buddies partners with PECO to allow our ambassadors more speaking opportunities,

Brooke with Best Buddy

Brooke Helgesen Brings Inclusion and Friendship to Thornton Academy

“We all just hang out, we help each other, include each other…”

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day,

Best Buddies Global Ambassador Madison Tevlin Featured in Viral World Down Syndrome Day Commercial

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day, “a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.”

Gracie Flanagan, who has worked at Dion’s Pizza since the summer of 2023 thanks to Best Buddies Jobs, was spotlighted on two local news outlets.

Best Buddies in New Mexico Jobs Participant Inspires Community

Gracie Flanagan, who has worked at Dion’s Pizza since the summer of 2023 thanks to Best Buddies Jobs, was spotlighted on two local news outlets.

Katelyn Quintero, the California state director, and Wesley Lam, a Best Buddies in California Ambassador, were recently interviewed to discuss the impact of Best Buddies across California in light of Best Buddies Month and the organization’s 35th anniversary.

Best Buddies in California Highlighted for Best Buddies Month

Katelyn Quintero, the California state director, and Wesley Lam, a Best Buddies in California Ambassador, were recently interviewed to discuss the impact of Best Buddies across California in light of Best Buddies Month and the organization’s 35th anniversary.

students with mascot at hockey game

Best Buddies Night with the Sioux Falls Stampede!

South Dakota Best Buddies Get Together for a Night on the Ice!

group of 4 best buddies student leaders

Titusville High School Brings Community Together for Largest Spread the Word Event in Florida

Titusvill High hosted Florida’s largest ever Spread the Word event this past March

Two young girls smiling in front of a barn door.

Best Buddy to Best Buddies Employee: How Margaret & Shannon turned their Passion for Inclusive Friendship into a Career

“I love my job because I get to see firsthand how our programs work and create friendships for life.”

A young girl is smiling in a white, long sleeved turtleneck shirt. Behind her are various crafts on a table.

Best Buddies in NH Selected for Donation from Tiny Businesses Program

Student entrepreneurs at Hollis Upper Elementary generously pick BBNH for contribution

three best buddies participants standing together

BVHS Best Buddies Graduates Start Inclusive Buddies & Company

A place where people with disabilities are valued and can connect with others.

A diverse group of Best Buddies Living participants pose for a picture under several Cherry Blossom trees.

Best Buddies Living in Georgetown Provides Life-Changing Opportunities to Residents

Rodrigo Balvanera, a master’s student at American University, found his home at the Georgetown location of Best Buddies Living.

Friendship Ball Recap Group Photo

Best Buddies Ball 2024 Recap

Student’s involvement in Best Buddies sparked 19-year journey to inclusive celebration.

The Miami Heat held a Best Buddies Night for participants of Best Buddies in Florida, the state subsidiary of Best Buddies International on March 10th when they took on the Washington Wizards.

Miami Heat Host Best Buddies Night

The Miami Heat held a Best Buddies Night for participants of Best Buddies in Florida, the state subsidiary of Best Buddies International on March 10th when they took on the Washington Wizards.

Uniquely Abled Fitness Collage

Uniquely Abled Fitness: Building Muscle and Friendships Every Sunday Morning

Young athletes with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities gather weekly for CrossFit class

Reilly Donovan is a participant in Best Buddies Living, which provides inclusive, independent housing opportunities for people with and without IDD.

Best Buddies Living in Union Market Grants Independence to Residents

Reilly Donovan is a participant in Best Buddies Living, which provides inclusive, independent housing opportunities for people with and without IDD.

The Young Leaders Council is advancing the organization through grassroots activism -- and creating the next generation of leaders in the process.

Best Buddies Young Leaders Council Trains Next Generation of Leaders

The Young Leaders Council is advancing the organization through grassroots activism — and creating the next generation of leaders in the process.

Friendship Ball Ballroom

A Sweet Celebration of Friendship: Best Buddies CT Friendship Ball

Celebrating friendship in a Candyland-themed dance, Best Buddies CT Friendship Ball shines!

At the Friendship Walk

Best Buddies Month Spotlight: James Vaccaro

Read on to celebrate Best Buddies Month with the amazing story of lifelong participant, James!

Read about the beginnings of Best Buddies and how a small club started by Anthony K. Shriver would become a world-renowned nonprofit.

How a School Club Became an International Nonprofit Organization

Read about the beginnings of Best Buddies and how a small club started by Anthony K. Shriver would become a world-renowned nonprofit.

Crystal Yang

Social Media Violence & the Disabled Community

Learnings from Best Buddies High School Volunteer – Crystal Yang

Lamar Billboard

Best Buddies in Pennsylvania and Lamar Advertising

A Six-Year Partnership Making Waves in Pittsburgh

Justin and Rachel at the Pirates Game

Justin and Rachel: Buddy Pair Turned PGH Walk Co-Captains!

Pittsburgh Buddy Pair gear up to Co-Lead the Citizens Friendship Walk Team for April 7th!

Richmond Expansion

Smithfield High School: A Story of Mission Expansion and New Friendships

“Having a place for kids to feel welcome … can do so much.”

Spread The Word logo

March 6th is Spread the Word Day

March 6th is Spread the Word Day, a day designated to showcase the impact of inclusion and inclusive language on people with disabilities.

Best Buddies in South Florida, is excited to announce the Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami on April 6, 2024 at loanDepot Park.

Best Buddies in South Florida to Host Annual Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk at loanDepot Park

Best Buddies in South Florida, is excited to announce the Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Miami on April 6, 2024 at loanDepot Park.

Citizens Pottery Painting

Citizens Pottery Painting – Cuyahoga County

March 23, 2024
Lakewood, OH

Join us for a fun afternoon of pottery painting!

Unified Champion School

Sami, Brooke, and Thornton Academy celebrate becoming Unified Champion School

“You should try being a Buddy: you’ll leave with a full heart.”

Higley

Embracing Inclusivity

Higley Unified’s Best Buddies Carnival Strengthens Bonds Across the District

Join us for Starry Night

2024 Starry Night Friendship Ball – Guest Form

March 16, 2024
Basalt, CO

Join us for a Starry Night Friendship Ball!

When a Best Buddies Friendship chapter came to Edgewood High School in Ohio last fall, it changed the lives of Tiffany Schatzle and Brooklynn Bowers.

Friendship Friday: Tiffany and Brooklynn

When a Best Buddies Friendship chapter came to Edgewood High School in Ohio last fall, it changed the lives of Tiffany Schatzle and Brooklynn Bowers.

March is Best Buddies Month, the annual celebration of Best Buddies International’s efforts to create one-to-one friendship, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This year is also the 35th anniversary of Best Buddies and the 30th anniversary of the Best Buddies Jobs Program.

March is Best Buddies Month!

March is Best Buddies Month, the annual celebration of Best Buddies International’s efforts to create one-to-one friendship, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This year is also the 35th anniversary of Best Buddies and the 30th anniversary of the Best Buddies Jobs Program.

Izzy and Alex Painting

Meet Izzy & Alex

They aren’t just friends; they’re shining stars in each other’s lives.

Thank You

Chapter Profile: Eastern CT State University

Read to learn all about ECSU’s Chapter Walk spirit!

Gracie cleaning a table.

Workplace Wednesday: Gracie Flanagan

Gracie Flanagan is serving up smiles at Dion’s Pizza in New Mexico, where she has worked since 2023 thanks to Best Buddies Jobs.

Marblehead

Marblehead’s Night of Basketball

Read about Marblehead’s amazing chapter and night of basketball in the Marblehead Current

Best Buddies in the Philippines Ambassador Nina Bantoto, who has autism, hosted a solo art exhibit at the legendary Gallerie Joaquin Podium.

Best Buddies in Philippines Ambassador Recognized at World-Renowned Art Exhibit

Best Buddies in the Philippines Ambassador Nina Bantoto, who has autism, hosted a solo art exhibit at the legendary Gallerie Joaquin Podium.

Maggie and Lauren in dresses and pageant attire.

Friendship Friday: Maggie and Lauren

Friendships, like the one between Maggie Lemay and Lauren Hoepp, can change lives.

Welcome Michael Kruse

Welcome to our new Advisory Board Chair, Michael Kruse

Meet Michael Kruse, Arizona’s new Advisory Board Chair, fostering inclusivity.

Meet Teresa Luna

Teresa Luna’s Journey with Best Buddies in Hawai’i

Rousing Friendship Walk Speech Makes Lasting Impact

Plainedge High School fashion show

Best Buddies in New York Friendship Chapter Hosts Inclusive Fashion Show

The Best Buddies Friendship chapter at Plainedge High School in New York recently held a fashion show for its participants.

Christopher at work

Workplace Wednesday: Christopher Ruzycki

Christopher Ruzycki has found his home at Home Depot.

Cassidy Bauer and Demaris Phillips cooking.

Best Buddies Participant Shines on Food Network’s “Guys Grocery Games”

Cassidy Bauer got the cooking experience of a lifetime when she starred in a special holiday episode of “Guy’s Grocery Games.”

NY Life Amb Training

Mastering the Art of the Elevator Pitch + Networking

February 22, 2024
Manchester, NH

Mastering the Art of the Elevator Pitch

Michelle Aventajado and her family stand beneath a verdant tree, their smiles radiating warmth and joy.

A Parent’s Story

No one wants to feel alone
Even if I understood what Down syndrome was because I was a teacher and taught in inclusive classrooms, when the neonatologist gave me a birth diagnosis of Trisomy 21, I felt the full gamut of emotions that comes along with the understanding that my parenthood journey was forever going to be different. My husband Nino and I looked to each other for comfort, but…

Hoops for Inclusion

Grandview Heights High School Dunks for Inclusion

“There is no greater disability in society, than the inability to see a person as more.” – Robert M. Hensel

Ice castles event flyer

Ice Castles

February 25, 2024
North Woodstock, NH

Ice Castles – Snow Tubing – Ice Slides – Light Walk

Meet Kaitlin

Meet Kaitlin, a Best Buddies Ambassador

Best Buddies makes me feel happy and included.

Best Buddies in New York received a $4,000 donation from Supermodels Unlimited Magazine and Miss USA at the New York Fashion Week.

Best Buddies Receives $4,000 Donation at New York Fashion Week

Best Buddies in New York received a $4,000 donation from Supermodels Unlimited Magazine and Miss USA at the New York Fashion Week.

On Feb. 13, actress Vivica A. Fox will compete on “Name That Tune” in support of Best Buddies International. The episode will air on Fox at 8/7c.

Vivica A. Fox to Compete on “Name that Tune” In Support of Best Buddies

On Feb. 13, actress Vivica A. Fox will compete on “Name That Tune” in support of Best Buddies International. The episode will air on Fox at 8/7c.

March First Jobs Event Invitation

Cocktails and Conversations

March 1, 2024
Kenmore, WA

Join Best Buddies Jobs in Washington to celebrate our 1st anniversary!

Join us for Starry Night

Starry Night Friendship Ball

March 16, 2024
Basalt, CO

Join us for a Starry Night Friendship Ball!

Painting Day

SAB Wednesday: Paint Night!

February 21, 2024
Zoom

Grab your friends and grab your paint brushes!

Gracie (left) and Adison (right).

Indiana Friendship Pair Featured on WRTV Indianapolis

Adison Coleman and Gracie Hamilton, a friendship pair from Best Buddies in Indiana, were recently featured on WRTV Indianapolis.

Buddy Ball Invitation

Middle School Buddy Ball

March 15, 2024
Pottstown, PA

We are excited to be hosting our annual PHL Middle School Buddy Ball

musical bingo flyer

Musical Bingo at the Backyard Brewery

February 29, 2024
Manchester, NH

Bingo – Friends – Dinner

PGH Buddy BALL

Pittsburgh High School and College Buddy Dance

March 16, 2024
Pittsburgh, PA

Celebrate Best Buddies Month with a dance at Baldwin High School on the 16th!

Kelly, Sarah and Megan smiling at the camera.

Friendship Friday: Kelly and Sarah

Kelly MacGregor and Sarah Morris became close friends through the unlikeliest of connections: Kelly’s daughter.

group of high school students at event

High School Buddy Ball

March 23, 2024
West Chester, PA

Put on your dancing shoes, it’s time for our annual Buddy Ball!

Anthony K. Shriver (right) and Best Buddies participants at the Celtics game.

Boston Celtics Host Fourth Annual Best Buddies Night

The Celtics gave our participants the basketball experience of a lifetime.

Lindsay Jewett with a Best Buddies participant

Best Buddies in New York Staff Member Interviewed on Courageously Kind Podcast

Lindsay Jewett, director of mission advancement for Best Buddies in New York, was the featured guest on the Courageously Kind podcast.

Ben Haworth

Supporting Individuals with “Invisible” Disabilities

Learn more about the reach of our programs in California.

Back to Best Buddies

Empowering Leaders through Back to Best Buddies Training

94 Students from across the State Join Local Staff for Our Annual Back to Best Buddies Training

Emily and Leonard making art

Emily and Leonard: Pittsburgh Citizens Match

Dynamic Duo Leonard and Emily Forge Lasting Friendship in Best Buddies Pittsburgh Citizens Chapter

Best Buddies in Colombia, the country’s subsidiary of Best Buddies International held a Christmas campaign with Aqualia that fundraised $7,600 for their innovative Best Buddies School.

Best Buddies in Colombia Fundraises for Innovative Job Training Program

Best Buddies in Colombia, the country’s subsidiary of Best Buddies International held a Christmas campaign with Aqualia that fundraised $7,600 for their innovative Best Buddies School.

Qintel Group Photo

Qintels continued support helps fuel Best Buddies Programs in Pennsylvania

Since the inception of their partnership, Qintel has dedicated over $150,000 to Best Buddies Pennsylvania, illustrating their dedication to fostering a more inclusive society

Anthony K. Shriver (right) and Best Buddies participants at the Celtics game.

Boston Celtics Host Fourth Annual Best Buddies Night

The Boston Celtics held their fourth annual Best Buddies Night for participants of Best Buddies in Massachusetts and Rhode Island on Jan. 30.

Harrison Phillips (middle) with members from Best Buddies in Minnesota.

Minnesota Vikings’ Harrison Phillips Gives Best Buddies in Minnesota Participants Exclusive Game Day Experience

Participants from Best Buddies in Minnesota were gifted a gameday experience with Minnesota Vikings’ defensive tackle Harrison Phillips.

Katelyn Miss Inspiration

State Ambassador Katelyn Crowned Miss Inspiration

Katelyn McKivergan, one of our oustanding State Ambassadors, crowned adaptive pageant queen.

Friendship Glows event flyer

Friendship Glows Buddy Ball – Denver

April 6, 2024
Cherry Hills Village, CO

Step into a neon-soaked time machine and journey back to the electrifying era of the 80s.

David Quilleon and Hunter Huff with International Franchise Association attendees.

Best Buddies Executive Speaks at International Franchise Association Conference

David Quilleon, the senior vice president of global mission, state development and operations at Best Buddies International, and Hunter Huff, a Best Buddies Global Ambassador were guest speakers at the Franchising Friends for a Cause Conference hosted by the International Franchise Association on Jan. 25.

Malcomsons teaching kids to skate

Cape Elizabeth hosting Best Buddies Inclusion Skate

Explore Malcomson’s impact leading Best Buddies, directing skates program, and more

Flutie 5k 25th Anniversary

Flutie 5K for Autism

October 27, 2024
Natick, MA

Join Team Best Buddies at the 25th Anniversary of the Flutie 5K!

Aaron Silverman waving to the camera with a commemorative Warriors jersey

Best Buddies Jobs Participant Recognized by Golden State Warriors

Aaron Silverman, a participant in the Best Buddies Jobs program in California, was recognized by the Golden State Warriors on January 25.

Two Best Buddies Living residents cooking food.

Best Buddies Living in Miami Offers Unique Opportunity

Julian Rodriguez lives in a condo in Coral Gables, and he’s looking for roommates. His condo, however, offers more than just a place to live.

Gracie (left) and Adison (right).

Friendship Friday: Adison and Gracie

Adison Coleman and Gracie Hamilton have been friends for their entire lives.

Two male Best Buddies Friendship program participants stand arm in arm, beaming with genuine camaraderie and joy.

Timothy & Ryan

Featured Profile Timothy & RyanFriendship Program Participants in California Ryan was introduced to Best Buddies as a freshman in high school. Throughout high school, he developed a deep appreciation for the Best Buddies mission and what it can do for individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). “I [...]
A dedicated Female Best Buddies Jobs Participant focuses intently on her computer as she engages in meaningful work.

Elaina

Featured Profile Elainakubik, Odenton, Maryland Elaina had long been searching for meaningful and inclusive employment in a role that would allow her to use her friendly personality and organizational skills. She landed an interview with kubik, an event management agency. Upon entering the interview, it became immediately apparent that this [...]
A confident male participant of the Leadership Development program stands poised at a podium, gesturing enthusiastically towards the vibrant crowd outside during the Best Buddies Leadership Conference.

Hunter Huff

Featured Profile Hunter HuffLeadership Development program - Global Ambassador “Hello everyone! My name is Hunter Huff, and I’ve been a proud member of Best Buddies for nine years. My life before joining this organization was very challenging. It was hard for me to make friends. I had issues socially connecting, [...]
Kailey Sullivan Crowned Champion of the Year in Arizona

Kailey Sullivan Crowned Champion of the Year in Arizona

A night unlike any other, marking two decades of celebrating and support inclusion!

Meet Aalia and Olivia

Meet Aalia and Olivia

They’re a burst of color and joy in each other’s lives

Mike Rice

Michael Rice: A Genuine Journey of Passion and Connection

A Man of Many Talents

Two cheerful female participants of the Living Program share smiles as they collaborate on laundry tasks, fostering independence and camaraderie.

AnnCatherine

Featured Profile AnnCatherineInclusive Living program - Resident AnnCatherine, also known as AC by her friends, joined the Best Buddies Living program in Georgetown in September 2022—a decision that would shape her future in ways she never imagined. AC’s story serves as a testament to the profound impact of our Best [...]
Friendship Ball

Team Construction’s 2025 Best Buddies Friendship Ball Watch Party

March 02, 2025
Nashville, TN

Get ready for this one-of-a-kind event!

Meet Melinda

Meet Melinda!

Meet our superstar jobs participant, Melinda!

Meet the VADC Team

Meet the Team!

Discover our favorite Best Buddies memories.

Tina Gulledge 2024 Champion of the Year

Tina Gulledge Named 2023 Best Buddies National Champion of the Year

Tina raised over $142,000 for Best Buddies in South Carolina!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks in Texas

Spring 2025
Statewide

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Cheshire 5k Cover

Team Best Buddies: Cheshire Half Marathon & 5K

April 13, 2025
Cheshire, CT

Team Best Buddies is an exciting and fun charity event that supports the programs and services of Best Buddies in Connecticut.

Maddy and Skyler at a Best Buddies Friendship Walk.

Friendship Friday: Madison and Skyler

Madison Evans and Skyler Chrestensen have taken the saying, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” to heart.

Pittsburgh Back to Best Buddies Training

Pittsburgh Back to Best Buddies Training

February 3, 2024
Pittsburgh, PA

Calling all Student Leaders: Back to Best Buddies is on February 3rd!

Philadelphia Back to Best Buddies Training

Philadelphia Back to Best Buddies Training

February 3, 2024
King of Prussia, PA

Calling all Student Leaders: Back to Best Buddies is on February 3rd!

Fiona

Fiona MacArthur Named Best Buddies in Maine 2023 Champion of the Year

We’re thrilled to announce Fiona MacArthur as our 2023 Grand Champion!

Friendship Ball

2025 Best Buddies Nashville Friendship Ball Guest Form

March 2, 2025
Nashville, TN

Get ready for this one-of-a-kind event!

Students from Best Buddies in Iowa designed jerseys for the Iowa Wolves of the NBA G-League to wear on their “Disability Empowerment Night.

Valley High School Designs Best Buddies Jerseys for Iowa Wolves

Students from Best Buddies in Iowa designed jerseys for the Iowa Wolves of the NBA G-League to wear on their “Disability Empowerment Night.”

Meghan, Kelly, and Sarah

Best Buddies Chapters and Families Unite

Best Buddies Chapters unite through family ties, forging friendships and inclusivity from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh

Ambassador Training

Ambassador Training with BNP Paribas

February 13, 2024
Chesterbrook, PA

Our amazing partner at BNP Paribas is hosting our Spring Ambassador Training on Feb. 13th!

Clarence Cruz at an Ambassador Training

Best Buddies in Philippines Featured on Kada Umaga

Clarence Cruz, a Best Buddies in Philippines employee and Ambassador, talked about Best Buddies on the popular Filipino television show Kada Umaga.

John John and Emily

Creating a Community of Inclusion: John John’s Story

John John has changed our lives, he is like a son to us.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Washington

May 17, 2025
Issaquah, WA

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Citizens event flyer

Citizens Franklin Park Conservatory Group Tour

February 17, 2024
Columbus, OH

Join us for a guided tour of these beautiful indoor gardens!

Cents Pizza

Eat Pizza. Support Best Buddies!

April 4th – April 15th, 2024
Cleveland, OH

Cent’s Pizza is giving back!

An Evening of Opportunity

An Evening of Opportunity

November 22, 2024
Boston, MA

An celebration of the growth and success of the Best Buddies Jobs program

Mark with big check

Honoring McLean High School Advisor, Mark Thompson

Mark has led the way for students, parents, and the McLean community

BC hockey event

Best Buddies Day at BC Hockey

February 18, 2024
Chestnut Hill, MA

Join us for a fun filled day of hockey!

Golf Outing logo

Best Buddies in Wisconsin Golf Outing – Guest Registration

June 10, 2024r
Sussex, WI

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Golf Outing logo

Best Buddies in Wisconsin Golf Outing – Foursome & Sponsor Registration

June 10, 2024r
Sussex, WI

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Golf Outing logo

Best Buddies in Wisconsin Golf Outing – Individual Registration

June 10, 2024r
Sussex, WI

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The Arc Resource Fair

The Arc South Shore Resource Fair

March 13, 2024
Hingham, MA

Join Best Buddies at the Resource Fair!

Monthly event calendar

Monthly Events Calendar

Year-Round
Statewide

Join us for fun virtual and in-person activities!

Best Buddies Logo on purple background

Friendship Ball 2024 – Southwest Florida

Date: TBD
Ft. Myers, FL

Friendship Ball is an opportunity for these members to connect and have fun together.

Kia'i's Journey in Hawaii

Kia’i’s Journey: Finding Community and Purpose with Best Buddies in Hawai’i

Kia’i’s Dedication to Advocacy and Inclusion

Participants in the stands of the Milwaukee Bucks arena

Milwaukee Bucks Host “Best Buddies Night”

The Milwaukee Bucks hosted a “Best Buddies Night” for members of Best Buddies in Wisconsin on Dec. 13. Just under 200 participants from local chapters attended.

Back to Best Buddies Leadership Training Day

Back to Best Buddies Leadership Training Day

February 8, 2025
Las Vegas, NV

Join us for Chapter Leadership Training for the Spring Semester.

Best Buddies in the news

Learn about our Evening of Opportunity Winners

Check out the videos made for our winners at Evening of Opportunity.

Maggie and Lauren Champion and Mission Partner

Outstanding New Hampshire Buddies

Maggie and Lauren are an outstanding buddy pair in our Citizens Program.

All Cheers at LC

Statewide 2023 Impact Report

Learn more about the reach of our programs in California.

Remembering Drew

Remembering “Woohoo-Drew”

Drew Petersen: A Beacon of Light in Our Best Buddies California Family

Champion of the Year, Jennifer Corriveau, and her Mission Partner, James Masterson

J²: Jennifer Corriveau and James Masterson Making History

Our Grand Champions, Jenn and James, raised over $50,000 for Best Buddies in New Hampshire!

Champions of the Year in California

Cheers to our Champions!

54 Inclusion Leaders Championing All Abilities & Raising $635,000 for Inclusion!

The University of Notre Dame's chapter of Best Buddies International has been changing lives through friendship and inclusion.

Best Buddies is Changing Lives at the University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame’s chapter of Best Buddies International has been changing lives through friendship and inclusion.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

December 13, 2025
Seattle, WA

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies International Hosted its first HBCU Symposium to help build inclusive communities on HBCU campuses.

Best Buddies International Hosts Historic First HBCU Accessibility and Inclusion Symposium

Best Buddies International Hosted its first HBCU Symposium to help build inclusive communities on HBCU campuses.

This Wednesday, Dec. 13, Best Buddies participants will be featured in a special holiday episode of

Best Buddies to be Featured on Food Network’s “Guy’s Grocery Games”

This Wednesday, Dec. 13, Best Buddies participants will be featured in a special holiday episode of “Guy’s Grocery Games” at 9/8c hosted by Best Buddies Global Ambassador Guy Fieri.

Eliza and Melissa

Friendship for a decade! Eliza and Melissa

Kennett High School Chapter President, Eliza Netzorg, has been matched with her buddy, Melissa, since 3rd grade!

The Thomas Sisters

Snapshot of Inclusion: The Thomas Family

Elise and Paige Thomas are shaping a legacy of friendship and inclusion for their sister Faith, photographed by Brittany Gidley.

Zumba

Zumba on Zoom with Zumba instructor Jeannie Dallahi

December 9th, 16th, and 23rd
Zoom

All ages and all fitness levels welcome!

Holiday party banner

Holiday Party

December 16, 2024
Concord, NH

Join us for a fun & festive celebration.

Breakfast Group

Best Buddies Virginia & DC’s First Annual Employer Partner Celebration

Creating inclusive workplaces and learning about supported employment for adults with IDD

Meet Peter Cooking

Meet Peter, a Best Buddies Living and Ambassadors Participant

Peter enjoys cooking, volunteering, and spending time with his roommates

Buddy Ball

2023 Best Buddies Buddy Ball

December 8, 2023
Provo, UT

Joins us as we celebrate the holidays with Moxie this year at our Best Buddies Buddy Ball!

Best Buddies Living provides inclusive, independent housing opportunities for people with and without IDD where they can learn, grow and thrive.

Best Buddies Offers Unique Living Opportunities

Best Buddies Living provides inclusive, independent housing opportunities for people with and without IDD where they can learn, grow and thrive.

This Saturday, Dec. 2, Best Buddies Founder, Board Member and CEO Anthony K. Shriver will be featured alongside Best Buddies participants from the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port at 10/9c on the A&E show

Best Buddies to be Featured on A&E’s “Cake Dynasty”

This Saturday, Dec. 2, Best Buddies Founder, Board Member and CEO Anthony K. Shriver will be featured alongside Best Buddies participants from the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port at 10/9c on the A&E show “Cake Dynasty.”

Meet Becca

Best Buddies Leadership: Becca’s Story

Meet Becca, a Best Buddies Ambassador with DeGeorge Syndrome from North Florida

Spur Local Critical Nonprofit

Best Buddies Awarded Spur Local Critical Nonprofit Seal

Best Buddies is a trusted nonprofit making an impact in the community.

Best Buddies Honors Global Ambassador Tom Brady at the 25th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami

Best Buddies honored NFL legend and Best Buddies Global Ambassador Tom Brady and raised $5 million at the Best Buddies Miami Gala. 

Best Buddies International asks its participants to support its mission by walking at their local Best Buddies Friendship Walk. Best Buddies in New York participants, however, decided to up the ante by running instead of walking. And this was not just any run: Team Best Buddies ran 26.2 miles in the famed New York City Marathon.

Best Buddies in New York Runs for Inclusion in New York City Marathon

Best Buddies International asks its participants to support its mission by walking at their local Best Buddies Friendship Walk. Best Buddies in New York participants, however, decided to up the ante by running instead of walking. And this was not just any run: Team Best Buddies ran 26.2 miles in the famed New York City Marathon.

Andrew Dixon Georgia's Champion of the Year

Grand Champion 2023!

Andrew Dixon Named Best Buddies in Georgia 2023 Champion of the Year

Kentucky Champion of the Year

Ami Cain and Cameron Brian Named Best Buddies in Kentucky 2023 Champion of the Year

Grand Champions raises over $130,000 for Best Buddies programs in Kentucky.

Bouquet Box owner Courtney Sixx and actress Charlotte McKinney joined Best Buddies founder, chairman and CEO Anthony Shriver in hosting a kickoff event on Thursday ahead of Friday’s 25th annual Best Buddies gala.

Bouquets and Friends: Kickoff Best Buddies Bash Held in Miami Ahead of 25th Gala

Bouquet Box owner Courtney Sixx and actress Charlotte McKinney joined Best Buddies founder, chairman and CEO Anthony Shriver in hosting a kickoff event on Thursday ahead of Friday’s 25th annual Best Buddies gala.

Best Buddies Global Ambassador Katie Meade and NFL legend and Best Buddies Global Ambassador Tom Brady, share a moment at the Best Buddies Miami Gala.

NFL Legend Tom Brady Honored with ‘Spirit of Leadership’ Award at 25th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami

Miami, FL November 21, 2023 — It was an honor 20 years in the making. Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), honored Tom Brady, NFL legend and Best Buddies Global Ambassador with the Spirit of Leadership Award recognizing his immense contributions to the organization at the 25th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami.

Mark Bodek speaking at North Carolina Champion of the Year gala

Charlotte FC’s Mark Bodek Speaks at Champion of the Year Gala

Mark Bodek, Best Buddies Jobs participant, served as this year’s Champion of the Year Gala keynote speaker.

Lillian Hill Named Best Buddies in Alabama 2023 Champion of the Year

Lillian Hill Named Best Buddies in Alabama 2023 Champion of the Year

Grand Champion raises $11,000+ for Best Buddies programs in Alabama.

Kendall Campbell Named Best Buddies in Oregon 2023 Champion of the Year

Kendall Campbell Named Best Buddies in Oregon 2023 Champion of the Year

Katie Campbell raised over $44,000 to support Best Buddies programs throughout the state of Oregon.

Bathey Fong Breaking Barriers

Breaking Barriers: The Uncharted Journey of Bathey Fong with Best Buddies in Hawai’i

Bathey Now Makes Decisions for Herself

Homecoming - Two Parties One Gala

Homecoming: Two Parties, One Purpose

Celebrate inclusion and friendship with Best Buddies Virginia & DC

Best Buddies International partnered with Bouquet Box to host a kickoff event ahead of the 25th Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala.

Best Buddies Celebrity Supporters Courtney Sixx and Charlotte McKinney Host Event Celebrating Friendship and Inclusion at Chrome Hearts in Miami

Best Buddies International partnered with Bouquet Box to host a kickoff event ahead of the 25th Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala.

Sara Messerli Named as Champion of the Year

Sara Messerli Named Best Buddies in Minnesota 2023 Champion of the Year

Grand Champion raises over $44,000 for Best Buddies programs in Minnesota.

Friendship Pair Brooklynn and Tiffany

Best Buddies Friendship: Brooklynn and Tiffany

There’s a lot we can learn from others, and these friendships can help inspire growth and an everlasting bond that is irreplaceable

Holli and Max Friendship Pair

Best Buddies Friendship Pair: Holli & Max

A life-changing story of friendship.

International Programs October 2023 Featured Image

International Programs: October 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating Inclusion Figures

Tony DeBlois weighed less than 2 pounds, became blind within days and was later diagnosed with autism, but ignoring conventional wisdom, his mother’s love uncovered his musical genius. Tony now plays 20 instruments and knows more than 8,000 songs.

Best Buddies Tour the Rail

Best Buddies Skyline Tour and Ride

Best Buddies Hawai’i’s fun time during an accessibility tour on the Skyline rail.

Tom Brady smiling for the camera.

Best Buddies International to Honor Global Ambassador Tom Brady at the 25th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami

Best Buddies International is thrilled to present its Best Buddies Challenge: Miami and the 25th Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala on Friday, November 17.

Meet Adam Hammond

Meet Adam Hammoud

A Spotlight on Adam Hammoud, Temple University Chapter President

Mark Bodek speaking at North Carolina Champion of the Year gala

Charlotte FC’s Mark Bodek Speaks at Best Buddies North Carolina Champion of the Year Gala

Mark Bodek, Charlotte FC employee and Best Buddies Jobs participant, served as this year’s North Carolina Champion of the Year Gala keynote speaker.

Best Buddies NDEAM Ambassador Training

Best Buddies NDEAM Ambassador Training

Best Buddies and BNY Mellon team up to host an ambassador training for NDEAM

Brooks Kopeka alongside other Best Buddies Palm Beach Gala attendees.

Brooks Koepka, a Young Boy — And One of the Sweetest Sing-Alongs You’ll Hear

Brooks Kopeka attended the Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala in West Palm Beach alongside his Jena Sims, his wife and the gala’s co-chair.

Ben and Bri

Brianna Wolfle Named Best Buddies in Delaware 2023 Champion of the Year

Grand Champion raises a record-breaking $10,900 for Best Buddies programs in Delaware.

Best Buddies in Kentucky Hosts Leadership Training Day

Best Buddies in Kentucky Hosts Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day was a HUGE success!

Jack Eichel standing with Best Buddies participants and presenting them with a donation.

Jack Eichel: Champion on the Ice and in the Community

“On Thursday, Oct. 26, [Jack Eichel] took it a step further, inviting Best Buddies Nevada, a branch of a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities out to a Golden Knights practice. He presented them with a $40,000 donation and involved his teammates in dressing up in fun costumes and trick-or-treating with the more than 50 Best Buddies participants.”

Michigan Local Leadership Training Day

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

Local Leadership Training Day was a HUGE success!

Haine Elementary

Haine Elementary – New Best Buddies Chapter

Haine Elementary kicks off their Best Buddies club with a fun pumpkin decorating activity

Ally Altschuler

Aces’ Ally Altshuler was nominated for Best Buddies’ “Champion of the Year.”

Ally Altshuler, Lower Merion Chapter President, has been nominated for Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Urinus Chapter

Best Buddies – Friendship and Inclusivity

Introducing Ursinus Best Buddies, a club that aims to promote friendship and community.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Alabama

Multiple Dates
Auburn & Tuscaloosa, AL

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Glenn Hiro giving a thumbs-up to the camera.

He’s Living His Own Life. And as a ‘Best Buddy,’ He Helps Others Do the Same

Glenn Hiro is a role model for people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities or IDD. He’s also a role model for those who don’t.

Diane Ray Brown Lifetime of Friendship Award given to Shannen Coffin

2023 Diane Ray Brown Friendship Award: Shannen Coffin Honored by Best Buddies in VA & DC, Sponsored by Tiffany & Co.

The highest honor and sign of gratitude bestowed upon a community member.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala

Oct. & Nov. 2025
Cincinnati, Cleveland, & Columbus, OH

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

International Programs September 2023 Newsletter Featured Image

International Programs: September 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating Inclusion Figures

Sarah Gordy is a British actress, model and dancer – who happens to have Down Syndrome. Gordy made history in 2014 when she played a key role without a handicap in “Crocodiles” at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre.

Homecoming Highlights Student Dance

Homecoming Highlights

Check out what’s in store for the 2023 Best Buddies Homecoming Gala

Harshal and his Vision Board

Meet Harshal!

Meet our amazing Transitions and Friendship Program member!

FW Group Photo

Boston Friendship Walk Success!

Thank you everyone for another successful Boston Friendship Walk!

Jack Eichel standing with Best Buddies participants and presenting them with a donation.

Golden Knights Center Jack Eichel Donates $40K To Local Best Buddies Chapter

Vegas Golden Knights center Jack Eichel presented Best Buddies International with a $40,000 donation Thursday.

Hailey Heiche and Carolyn Meyer at Hailey Heiche's wedding.

She Unexpectedly Asked a Lady From Church for a Ride. Now, the Two Are National Best Buddies

"From the start of their friendship, Meyer told Heiche about Best Buddies, the fun she had at their programs, the special relationships she formed through the organization. Meyer, 34, and Heiche, 29, started going to Best Buddies events together, and, at a 2017 Randy Travis tribute concert, Heiche asked Meyer [...]
Three participants smiling at the camera

Centennial High School Earns “Honor Row” at Baltimore Ravens Game

The Best Buddies Friendship chapter at Centennial High School was invited to the Baltimore Ravens’ “Honor Rows” for providing “outstanding support” to the community.

International Programs August 2023 Newsletter Masthead

International Programs: August 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating Inclusion Figures

Pranav Bakshi was two years old when he was diagnosed with autism. But his mother, Anupama Bakhshi, decided to not let it become a hurdle in the way of achieving his dreams and so, one day when Pranav expressed his interest in modelling, his mother knew she had to help her son explore fields of his interest.

Two friendship participants smiling for the camera

Best Buddies Works to Make Inclusive Space at Homecoming

"'Best Buddies, and their sponsors, Mrs. Bleck and Ms. Bloom jumped right in and started meeting with their Executive Board to start planning for an alternative option for the 2023 Homecoming Dance,' Huntington said, adding that Cruz was very active in the planning process." Read the full article. ABOUT BEST [...]
Just a week or so ago, Best Buddies held a fund and awareness-raising event in Aspen, creating waves of genuine excitement that bode extremely well for the future of this terrific project in our community.

Growing Community: Learning the Superpower of Friendship

Just a week or so ago, Best Buddies held a fund and awareness-raising event in Aspen, creating waves of genuine excitement that bode extremely well for the future of this terrific project in our community.

Best Buddies Citizens pair holding hands and smiling outside

Best Buddies in Kentucky Expands Citizens Program

The Best Buddies Citizens programs in Lexington and Berea are officially launched!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Friendship Jam

TBD
Honolulu, HI

Join us as we celebrate and crown our new Champion of the Year.

Best Buddies in the news

Best Buddies Honored for Inclusion Efforts

Ravens Honor Rows: Best Buddies honored for Inclusion Efforts

Glenn Hiro giving a thumbs-up to the camera.

Best Buddies NDEAM Spotlight: Glenn Hiro

During this National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), consider how your business can become an inclusive employer by visiting bestbuddies.org/jobs.

Bobby Shriver, Anthony K. Shriver, and three Best Buddies Ambassadors smiling for the camera.

The 20th Best Buddies Challenge: California Presented by Safeway Foundation Raises Nearly $3 Million for Best Buddies International

Best Buddies hosted its 20th Best Buddies Challenge: California presented by Safeway Foundation, which raised nearly $3 million.

BBOK Leadership Training Day

Best Buddies in Oklahoma hosts Leadership Training Days

Local Leadership Training Days were a HUGE success!

BBAL Leadership Training Day

Best Buddies in Alabama Hosts Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day was a HUGE success!

BBGA Leadership Training Day

Best Buddies in Georgia Hosts Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day was a HUGE success!

BBSC Leadership Training Day

Best Buddies in South Carolina Hosts Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day was a HUGE success!

Sam and Matt

Sam & Matt

Meet a sports-loving friendship pair!

Best Buddies staff members from China, Croatia, England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, the Philippines, Turkey and the United States participated in cross-industrial training programs and seminars to equip them with the skills to continue to amplify the Best Buddies mission around the globe.

Best Buddies International Hosts the 2023 Global Staff Forum in Madrid, Spain

Best Buddies staff members from China, Croatia, England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, the Philippines, Turkey and the United States participated in cross-industrial training programs and seminars to equip them with the skills to continue to amplify the Best Buddies mission around the globe.

Sean and Evan Highlight

Helping make Best Buddies for people with disabilities in Maine

If karaoke is your jam, BBME has all the fun you can handle.

Jobs participant collage

Announcing our Jobs Newsletter

Meet featured participants and learn about what they’re up to in the workplace.

Two Best Buddies participants eating Jersey Mike's subs.

Best Buddies and Jersey Mike’s Subs Partner for Inclusion

Jersey Mike’s customers can round up their purchase to the nearest dollar or donate $1, $3 or $5 to donate to Best Buddies when placing their order on the Jersey Mike’s app.

Best Buddies International Announces the 20th Best Buddies Challenge: California Presented by Safeway Foundation

Best Buddies International is pleased to announce the 20th Best Buddies Challenge: California presented by Safeway Foundation.

Best Buddies in Maine hosted successful fundraiser

Best Buddies in Maine hosted successful Bangor-centered fundraiser

It all started when Kelly Scheetz started collecting items from community members.

LLTD Group Image 2

Best Buddies In Pennsylvania: Local Leadership Training Day

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Student Leaders Gather to learn how to run a successful Best Buddies Chapter

Big Dave Vying for State Best Buddies Crown

Big Dave Vying for State Best Buddies Crown

2023 Champion candidate, Dave Hausman, highlighted in Conway community.

LTD Image 1

Best Buddies in Delaware Hosts Leadership Training Day

Local Leadership Training Day was a HUGE success!

Lloyd Lewis and Family

Corporate Call To Action

One way to hire individuals with IDD is through Best Buddies Jobs.

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walks: Georgia

April & May 2025
Statewide

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Screenshot from News story

Best Buddies Makes Waves in Ohio

A wonderful news report from ABC 5

Dane and Jackson Hugging

A note from the State Director, Catlin Skufca

Changing lives through friendship – Dane and Jackson

Best Buddies NDEAM Invite

Best Buddies Global NDEAM Event to Highlight Celebration of Inclusive Employment

To celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), Best Buddies International, the groundbreaking international nonprofit founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is virtually hosting the Best Buddies NDEAM Event on October 25, 2023, from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. ET.

Al Horford, the Boston Celtics’ five-time NBA All-Star center is seen with Anthony K. Shriver, the founder, board member and CEO of Best Buddies International.

Boston Celtics’ Star Al Horford Hosts Meet-And-Greet for Best Buddies Participants

Al Horford, the Boston Celtics’ five-time NBA All-Star center, hosted a meet-and-greet event with Best Buddies International on September 28.

Brett Jobs Highlight

Jobs Program Highlight: Brett

With the help of Best Buddies Jobs, Brett has a job he loves and is proud of.

Wilson Clough

Wells High School’s Wilson Clough stands out in 3 sports and service to community

Wilson Clough’s contributions to the community extend far beyond the pitch, ice rink or field.

Christina Hundley spoke to WFLA in Tampa to discuss Best Buddies and her recent opportunity to sing the national anthem at a Tampa Bay Rays’ baseball game.

Global Ambassador Shares Heartwarming National Anthem Experience

Christina Hundley spoke to WFLA in Tampa to discuss Best Buddies and her recent opportunity to sing the national anthem at a Tampa Bay Rays’ baseball game.

Best Buddies at Nationals Game

Best Buddies Hits it Out of the Park!

A weekend full of baseball, beer, and bean bags.

Elizabeth Townsend is Delawares Area Director

Elizabeth Townsend Promoted to Area Director

From Program Manager to Area Director, Townsend is thrilled to further develop Best Buddies in Delaware.

LC Group Photo

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“Thank you Best Buddies for making this a weekend I’ll never forget.”

BBLC Press Release Group Image

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“It was lovely meeting such a beautiful group of people.”

LC Group Photo

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“My experience at BBLC was simply life-changing.”

LC Group Photo

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“BBLC was an incredibly influential conference that profoundly impacted my mindset.”

Group Photo

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“Going to BBLC was such an exciting experience!”

BBLC South Dakota Participants

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“BBLC was the best weekend of my life.”

Barre3 event

Best Buddies barre3 Donation Class

October 22, 2023
Washington D.C.

Join us for a fun workout to raise money for Best Buddies!

RJ Igniting Inclusion

RJ Myers: Igniting Inclusion at Pearl City High School

RJ Myers Leadership Recognized

Best Buddies is proud to team up with Safeway to help ensure that people with IDD can earn an income so they can gain financial independence and meaningfully contribute to society.

Changing Lives Through Inclusive Hiring: Best Buddies and Safeway

Best Buddies is proud to team up with Safeway to help ensure that people with IDD can earn an income so they can gain financial independence and meaningfully contribute to society.

Michigan Group Posing

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“BBLC is a beautiful celebration of inclusion.”

Leadership Conference Group Image

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“Leadership Conference definitely changed my life.”

Washington and Oregon Group

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“She came back to school so excited, saying BBLC changed her life!”

Oklahoma Ambassadors

Best Buddies in Oklahoma Ambassador Training

Empowering individuals with and without IDD to find their voice.

Spread the Word Football Game

Downingtown East honors Best Buddies and Special Olympics

Downingtown East honors Best Buddies and Special Olympics athletes at 11th annual Spread the Word football game.

Leadership Training Day

O’ahu Leadership Training Day Inspires Leaders

Participants strategized for a successful school year.

Skyline Group

Hawaii Participants on KITV

Participants got to tour and ride the Skyline.

Best Buddies in the news

A Focus on Children (Phillips Charitable Foundation)

Best Buddies was honored as one of 8 grant recipients, spreading hope to children.

2023 Our Philadelphia Citizens

The Transformative Power of Friendship and Creativity!

Philadelphia Citizen’s Participants Gather to Create Art for Our Champion of the Year Gala

Local Leadership Training Day - Group

Local Leadership Training Day: Inspiration with a Twist!

Virginia and DC students gathered to plan for the upcoming school year.

Joseph Canty discusses Best Buddies HBCU Accessibility and Inclusion Symposium, which will take place on Sept. 14, 2023.

Best Buddies’ DE&I Director Discusses Groundbreaking HBCU Symposium

Joseph Canty discusses Best Buddies HBCU Accessibility and Inclusion Symposium, which will take place on Sept. 14, 2023.

Upcoming Events Image

Party for a Purpose (Guest Form)

RSVP: We appreciate your interest; however, this year's event has sold out. We hope you can join us next year!
Party with a Purpose Flyer

Party With a Purpose

March 7, 2024
Rye, NH

2024 Party With a Purpose

Best Buddies participant named honorary captain at Atlanta Falcons’ home opener.

Best Buddies Participant Named Honorary Captain at Atlanta Falcons’ Home Opener

Best Buddies participant named honorary captain at Atlanta Falcons’ home opener.

Ashley and Kelly

Best Buddies Friendship: Ashley and Kelly

“My favorite part about my friendship with Kelly is being able to connect with her”

Carol Zosh, Celebrating 25 Years Featured Image

Celebrating 25 Years of Dedication: Best Buddies Honors Carol Zosh

Carol Zosh: Celebrating 25 Years

October 14, 2023
Manchester, NH

Best Buddies in New Hampshire Special Event at Chunky's Manchester: Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Concert Film

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Concert Film

October 14, 2023
Manchester, NH

Best Buddies in New Hampshire Special Event at Chunky’s Manchester: Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Concert Film

State Ambassadors Group

Introducing Our 2023-2024 VA & DC State Ambassadors!

Ambassadors become leaders by developing skills to professionally share their life stories.

Two best buddies participants on the national mall giving thumbs up signs

Tysons Corner Holiday Giveback

Until December 24, 2023
Tysons, VA

Support Best Buddies this holiday season by shopping at Tysons Corner.

Best Buddies Ambassador Kellie Howard is smiling and pointing at the camera, with a staff member standing next to her and smiling at the camera.

Best Buddies International To Host Inaugural Online Historically Black Colleges and Universities Accessibility and Inclusion Symposium

Best Buddies International will host its inaugural online Historically Black Colleges and Universities Accessibility and Inclusion Symposium on Sept. 14, 2023, from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. EST.  

2023 Citizens Maul Outin

Best Buddies Citizens Outings Bring Joy and Healing

Read about the amazing outings Best Buddies Citizens on O’ahu and Maui!

LC Group Photo

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

There is so much to learn from the BBLC and there is something for everyone…

BBLC Group Photo

Reunited for Inclusion at BBLC 2023

Another successful Best Buddies Leadership Conference at Indiana University!

North Italia Group

Pizza with a Purpose: Best Buddies Citizens Event at North Italia

Citizens were building a meal, but, more importantly, they were building friendships.

Champions Gala Video Overlay

Best Buddies Celebrates Friendship at Homecoming Champions Gala | NBC4 Washington

Check out the news coverage of our 2022 Homecoming Gala

Fresno Jobs Screen Capture

Best Buddies Jobs Program x Project Search

Integrated Employment Opportunities in Fresno

Unity in Diversity- Celebrating Inclusivity and Friendship at BBLC

Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Inclusivity and Friendship

Celebrating Inclusivity and Friendship at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference.

Ben's Corner

Inspiring Young Leaders

Best Buddies taught me to believe in myself no matter what.

Gabi and Cate at Steelers Game

Gabi and Cate: A Friendship Forged Through Best Buddies

Gabi and Cate’s friendship is a heartwarming story of two individuals who created an amazing friendship.

Connie Mehlman, 20 years of impactful volunteering

Back to School with Connie Mehlman: 20 Years of Impactful Volunteering

Connie Mehlman, Award-Winning Advisor, Shares Her Story

Maggie and Aidan

Best Buddies Friendship: Maggie and Aidan

“Once I met Aidan, I could tell that she was a true friend.”

Group of Living participants playing UNO

Best Buddies in VA & DC Participants Enjoy Independent Living

A roommate arrangement that is at once ordinary and extraordinary

2023 students at Nat Game

Best Buddies Day at the Ballpark

September 22, 2023
Washington, DC

Cheer on the Washington Nationals as they take on the Atlanta Braves.

World-renowned cyclist Geraint Thomas riding his bike.

Geraint Thomas Joins Best Buddies Breakaway Camp: Malibu

Cycling superstar Geraint Thomas will be a featured guest at the fall edition of the Best Buddies Breakaway Camp: Malibu.  

Cornhole Tournament Banner

Best Buddies Cornhole Tournament

September 23, 2023
Ashburn, VA

Cornhole, beers, and friendship to support our Champions of the Year Candidates!

group of students at bblc

20th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2023

“Every time I go to BBLC, my love and dedication for this mission is reignited”

Students on stage accepting an award

Excelsior Elementary School Receives Award From Best Buddies International

Excelsior Elementary School honored as Outstanding Chapter at BBLC

Group photo from BBLC

The Mosaic Company Provides Funding for 38 Hillsborough and Pasco County Students to Attend the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference

Student Leaders attend Leadership Conference thank to The Mosaic Company

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

November 2025
Austin, Dallas & Houston

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Two pre-ets participants smiling

School Staff Praise Best Buddies’ Donna Morgan and Pre-ETS Program

Students at Donald M. Payne Sr. Tech have been practicing skills in the Pre-ETS program.

International Programs

Tricia Williams - Profile

Staff Perspectives – Tricia Williams

As a first-generation immigrant to this country, to say the transition was difficult was an understatement.

Group shot at event

Leaders from Around the World to Unite in the Name of Inclusion at the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference in Bloomington, IN.

Join us July 21-24 at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana.

Lloyd and Kennedy Lewis

The Best Buddies Mission In Action

We all need buddies, friends who “get” us and who are there for us no matter what.

The Journey of a Best Buddy Leader

Building Inclusive Communities with BBLC: The Journey of a Best Buddies Leader

A BB College Leader looks forward to what she will learn at BBLC!

International Programs June 2023 Newsletter Featured Image

International Programs: June 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating Inclusion Figures

Disability representation in front of the camera is more imperative than ever. But what about behind the scenes, diversifying the visionaries who make up our creative industries? This is the mission behind Trifle Studio, the UK’s first multidisciplinary design studio whose work is created by artists and designers with learning disabilities.

International Programs-May 2023 Newsletter Featured Image

International Programs: May 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating Inclusion Figures

Reuben Selby is a fashion designer, a tech entrepreneur, a CEO, and a neurodiversity advocate. At 25 years old, Reuben Selby is a certified polymath or, in his words, the wearer of “many different hats.”

Colin and Kourosh

An Unbreakable Bond with my “Buddy Guard”

The Power of Friendship: Colin & Kourosh

Daniel and Collin Fishing

Best Buddies Friendship: Daniel and Collin

“My life has changed so much since I joined this organization.”

Richard Nakai, Best Buddies Ambassador

Sharing Perspectives on Disability Pride Month by Richard Nakai

Back in October 2000, the staff at UCLA HELP Group had something to say about my diagnosis. They told my mom and me, “Don’t expect too much from him and don’t put too much pressure on him.”

Kara and Daniella

The Impact of a Citizens Friendship: Kara Falcone and Daniella

Get to know MARI State Director, Kara Falcone, and her Citizens buddy Daniella.

Justin Moodley

Justin Moodley, named as Chair of the 2023 Columbus Gala

Columbus Gala set to take place this October

A group of Best Buddies Living participants eating together in their kitchen

A roommate arrangement that is at once ordinary and extraordinary

By creating two new housing opportunities in D.C., Best Buddies is fostering more than friendships between people with and without disabilities.

Takes on a new project

Best Buddies in NYC takes on a New Project

An unique experience set up in NYC for our Best Buddies Jobs and Citizens!

Buddy Connect Featured Image

Buddy Connect in Best Buddies Citizens!

Join the Best Buddies Citizens Program!

Richard Nakai

Life with an “Invisible” Disability

An important reminder from a Best Buddies State Ambassador – Richard Nakai

KH Group Photo

Meet Donna Ferrucci: Best Buddies Elementary School Advisor and Advocate for Inclusion

Best Buddies R.I. Advisor Donna Ferrucci shares her Best Buddies story

John Lee and Mary Beth

Mary Beth and John Lee, named Chairs of the 2023 Cleveland Gala

Third annual event set to take place this November

Hundreds of cyclists are seen leaving the Start Line at the Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

24th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port Presented By Shaw’s And Star Market Foundation And The Tjx Companies, Inc. Raises Nearly $4 Million For People With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Celebrity Chef Buddy Valastro, and 9-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Carl Lewis were in attendance to help [...]
Friendship Recap Featured Image

2023 Friendship Walk raises over $96,000 for Minnesota Programs

Best Buddies in Minnesota hosted its annual Friendship Walk celebrating inclusion

Ryan and Timothy

Friendship Program Feature: Ryan & Timothy

Four years of friendship still going strong!

Several cyclists ride in the Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port.

Pedaling for a purpose: Hundreds take part in 2023 Best Buddies Challenge

Hundreds of riders pedaled through the rain on Saturday to support Best Buddies during the 2023 Best Buddies Challenge bike ride.

Sammy at Disneyland

Jobs Program Highlight: Sammy at Disneyland

Sammy works his dream job at the happiest place on earth!

International Programs April 2023 Newsletter Featured Image

International Programs: April 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating Inclusion Figures

As the UK’s first blind and Black female barrister, the name Jessikah Inaba is inscribed in history. Last October, after five years of study and painstakingly transcribing all her own lecture notes into Braille, Inaba was called to the bar, smashing what she refers to as “the triple-glazed glass ceiling”.

Best Buddies in Utah Friendship Walk

5th Annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Utah

Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Utah raises over $14,000 for individuals with IDD!

One step closer to inclusion

One step closer to inclusion

Friendship Walk Success & Willams Syndrome Awareness Month – May 2023 Newsletter

Join the Global Volunteer Movement

Join the Global Volunteer Movement!

Celebrate National Volunteer Week with us. – April 2023 Newsletter

Miami Award Picture

Best Buddies Friendship Chapter Awarded Organization of the Year at Miami University

“Wait, no, really!?” Chapter President Meredith Bell exclaimed in excitement and disbelief as…

Best Buddies in the news

BBNY introduces their 2023-2025 State Ambassadors

BBNY is excited to have selected the 11 State Ambassadors for the 2023-2025 term.

Friendship Ball image

Best Buddies in Minnesota Hosts Annual Friendship Ball

The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Friendship Ball exhibited joy, love, and inclusivity.

Best Buddies’ Mother of the Year — Holly Robinson Peete, and her family are on a Beach.

Best Buddies International to Honor Actress Holly Robinson Peete at Its 6th Annual Celebration of Mothers Presented by Cadillac

The 6th Annual Best Buddies Celebrating Mothers will honor Best Buddies’ Mother of the Year — Holly Robinson Peete, a phenomenal actress and passionate advocate for individuals with IDD.

Michelle in a Best Buddies t-shirt

A Letter to my Best Buddies Chapter

“Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” – Lilo and Stitch

BB Honored at USM Award Gala

Best Buddies Honored at USM’s Student Leadership Awards

Our USM chapter was celebrated for their dedication to inclusion and friendship!

BBNY x Reel Abilities

Best Buddies x Reel Abilities

Best Buddies works alongside Reel Abilities!

Walk Brings Awareness to people with IDD

Best Buddies in Hawai’i on KITV

Friendship Walk brings awaress to support inclusion for people living with disabilities in Hawai’i

BBMN ICYMI Morpheus Benefi Concert

Best Buddies in Minnesota April Newsletter

Walk for inclusion on Saturday, May 20th at Weaver Lake Park

Glen Hiro Midweek

We Were Featured on MidWeek!

Check out the guest column featuring Best Buddies in Hawaii in MidWeek!

HI News Now Spotlight

Best Buddies in Hawai’i on HI Now

Best Buddies in Hawaii was featured on HI Now!

Hunter Maxham

Hunter Maxham Fashion Show

Read about Hunter’s dedication to fashion and inclusion!

Best Buddies in the news

Best Buddies Minnesota to Host Friendship Walk in Maple Grove

Walk for inclusion on Saturday, May 20th at Weaver Lake Park

Leinaala Nakoa

Hawaii Island Pageant Contestant Featured on Hawaii Public Radio

Leina’ala Nakoa – On Autism Spectrum – Talks Friendship Walk

Ryan Hoffman Image

Ryan Hoffman becomes a Best Buddies Global Ambassador

Best Buddies in Ohio congratulates Ryan Hoffman on becoming a Global Ambassador for Best Buddies International!

BB Logo White on Black with mission pillars

Engelstad Foundation’s Grant Boosts Best Buddies in Nevada

Compassionate aid enriches the lives of those with intellectual and developmental differences

A diverse groupd of South Florida Best Buddies Friendship walk participants at loanDepot park.

Ed Ansin Best Buddies Friendship Walk, held at loanDepot Park, raises over $300K

MIAMI (WSVN) – It was a fun morning at loanDepot Park in Miami, as the Best Buddies community and the 7News family came together to send a message of inclusion.

First annual Best Buddies Cornhole event focused on inclusivity and friendship

First annual Best Buddies Cornhole Event Focused on Inclusivity and Friendship

Over 100 teams celebrated inclusion at our first-annual BBME Cornhole Tournament!

Young Professionals Network (YPN)

Young Professionals Network (YPN)

The Best Buddies Young Professional’s Network is a group of young professionals dedicated to supporting the mission of inclusion and fostering friendships. Members benefit by taking part in hands-on volunteer opportunities, serving in a leadership capacity, or through the various networking and friendship opportunities the organization provides. Who can join? Any [...]
NY Zach and Roger Goodell

BB Jobs Participant Zach and the NFL

NFL Able is created!!!

Two female Best Buddies New York Friendship program participants are being interviewed about their relationship.

Best Buddies NY promotes inclusivity, ends isolation in the community

The non-profit organization Best Buddies builds bonds through its friendship program…

Citizens Volunteers Needed

Best Buddies Citizens: A Life-Changing Program for Adults

The Best Buddies Citizens program is looking for volunteers without disabilities!

March 6
Carnegie Science Center
Pittsburgh, PA

Join Best Buddies Pennsylvania for a night of food, fun, and friendship at the Carnegie Science Center!

Buddy Ball

March 6
Carnegie Science Center
Pittsburgh, PA

Join Best Buddies Pennsylvania for a night of food, fun, and friendship at the Carnegie Science Center!

BB Logo White on Black with mission pillars

The Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation Generous Grant To Support Best Buddies in Aspen

With the grant provided by The Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation, Best Buddies will focus on furthering our mission of inclusion through launching Friendship programs

Champions March Newsletter Banner

How do you champion inclusion?

Happy Best Buddies Month! – March 2023 Newsletter

BB Logo White on Black with mission pillars

Insight Global Grants Funding To Launch Best Buddies Jobs Program In Georgia

With the money provided by Insight Global, Best Buddies will focus on furthering our mission of inclusion through securing employer partners and placing participants with IDD in integrated employment.

BB Logo White on Black with mission pillars

The Dan Thompson Memorial Grants Funding To Launch Jobs Program in Washington

With the money provided by The Dan Thompson Memorial, Best Buddies will focus on furthering our mission of inclusion through securing employer partners and successfully placing participants with IDD in integrated employment.

Pickerington Pledge to End the R Word Banner

Pickerington North High School Scored for Inclusion at a School-Wide Pep Rally

The crowd held their breath, then cheered as players rebounded and scored.

BB Logo White on Black with mission pillars

KOP Insiders: Hilary Stephens, State Director, Best Buddies Pennsylvania

Hear about our local impact & the Friendship Walk in King of Prussia!

Albany Morning Show

Albany Best Buddies heads to Fox 23

Albany Best Buddies heads to Fox 23

BB Featured on Spectrum

Best Buddies in NY promotes inclusivity, ends isolation in the community

Best Buddies NY promotes inclusivity, ends isolation in the community

Eradicating Stereotypes

Best Buddies is crucial in eradicating stereotypes

Best Buddies is crucial in eradicating stereotypes, discrimination of neurodiversity

A coach speaks to his Basketball team in the movie,

Woody Harrelson and ‘Champions’ cast are sending a message of acceptance with their new comedy

The “White Men Can’t Jump” star returns to the basketball court in a new comedy as a coach of a fun-loving team of players with intellectual disabilities.

Matthew Von Der from the movie,

Matthew Von Der Ahe on ‘Champions’ and the Importance of Representation on the Big Screen

Matthew Von Der Ahe stars in “Champions,” Bobby Farrelly’s refreshingly unsentimental, hilarious and rather gritty remake of the 2018 Spanish hit “Campeones.”

A scene in the movie,

Tampa man with autism stars in Woody Harrelson movie about Special Olympics

TAMPA — Elementary school classmates made fun of Joshua Felder’s weight.“Just kids being kids,” the 25-year-old Tampa resident said. He also struggled to speak clearly. “I had a slur,” Felder said. “I didn’t know how to pronounce words.” He’s come a long way.

Penn State Valentines Day

Penn State Helps Foster Personal Friendships

Penn State Helps Foster Personal Friendships

Taste Buds Video

Best Buddies TasteBuds 2022

Thank you to our friends at Covalent for this incredible video, your constant support of Best Buddies.

Best Buddies International Supports the Entire Community

Best Buddies International Supports the Entire Community

Best Buddies has a cure from age 5 to forever for loneliness.

Two female Best Buddies New York Friendship program participants are being interviewed about their relationship.

Best Buddies NY promotes inclusivity, ends isolation in the community

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The non-profit organization Best Buddies builds bonds through its friendship program between people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Best Buddies Month Banner with smiling participants

March is #BestBuddiesMonth

Celebrate and take action!

Best Buddies in Oregon Citizens Meetup

Citizens Meet Up for March

March 19, 2023
Beaverton, OR

Join the Oregon Citizens group for our March Meet up at the Cedar Hills Shake Shack!

Feb Email Banner

Become an Inclusion Leader

Lead your Friendship Walk team to success!

Phil Postier at Green Valley High School

Best Buddies Volunteer and Teacher Named December Community Smiles Winner

Best Buddies Advisor wins Move 4 Less recognition.

Buffalo Sabres Experience with Alex Tuch

Buffalo Sabres Experience with Alex Tuch

Sessions were held in Rochester, Albany, Long Island and NYC!

Global Ambassadors Class of 2020

Best Buddies Ambassadors is a program that provides training for participants with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in areas of speech writing, public speaking, and self-advocacy. Ambassadors develop the skills to professionally share their life stories, promote Best Buddies programs, network, and most importantly, advocate.  The Ambassadors program [...]

Party for a Purpose Guest Registration

RSVP: We appreciate your interest; however, this year's event has sold out. We hope you can join us next year!
Students Shoot for the Stars

Students Reach for the Stars in Best Buddies in New Jersey Pre-Employment Program

Students at Donald M. Payne Sr. Tech have been practicing skills in the Pre-ETS program.

Best Buddies in WNY participants celebrating at the Champion Kickoff event

Back to Best Buddies held across NY State

Sessions were held in Rochester, Albany, Long Island and NYC!

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year: Alabama

Oct. 9, 2025
Hoover, AL

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Virtual Event Show and Tell

Virtual Hang-In: Show & Tell

Feburary 15, 2023
Zoom

Join us for our monthly Virtual Hang-In: Show and Tell!

Alex Rogers Joins Best Buddies Advisory Board

Best Buddies in Ohio Welcomes Alex Rogers to Best Buddies Advisory Board in Central Ohio

Best Buddies in Ohio expands Advisory Board in Central Ohio.

Anna Moates Named First Ever Best Buddies in Alabama 2022 Champion of the Year

Anna Moates Named First Ever Best Buddies in Alabama 2022 Champion of the Year

First ever Grand Champion in Alabama raises over $23,000!

Bret Fleming singing on stage at a Best Buddies Challenge event

Bret Fleming and “The Buddy Tree” (Best Buddies Anthem) music video

Meet Bret, a Best Buddies in New Jersey Advisory Board Member and a Best Buddies Global Ambassador with William’s Syndrome.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala: Georgia

November 7, 2025
Atlanta, GA

Our annual fundraising competition featuring a select group of prominent community leaders.

Chris Lindstrom, Best Buddies supporter and Friendship participant, is sharing drinks and snacks with his best buddy.

‘It’s all about the relationships:’ Why Chris Lindstrom is so motivated to give back

Lindstrom’s work with the Georgia chapter of Best Buddies, focused on creating opportunities and a network of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Chef Challenge Banner

Best Buddies Chef & Champion Challenge

Fall 2025
Des Moines

Join us for an evening of food and friendship.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year: Indiana

November 8, 2025
Indianapolis, IN

Celebrate the impact of the Best Buddies mission and the efforts of our Champion of the Year candidates.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Best Buddies Champion of the Year Galas

November 2025
Albany & Rochester

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Best Buddies California had such a successful Champion of the Year season with the support of presenting and platinum partners - Waymo, Pantheon, Wires Only, and JLL!

Leading Companies Unite to Support and Drive Positive Change

Our partners align to make the world more inclusive.

2022 Wrapped: Inclusion Edition

Best Buddies in California Newsletter: Dec 2022

2022 Wrapped: Inclusion Edition

Best Buddies Build Friendships One Brick at a Time

Best Buddies Build Friendships One Brick at a Time

Students donate Lego sets to children in need.

Danny's Holiday Hits on Steel Drum

Danny’s Holiday Hits on Steel Drum

Watch Pre-ETS participant, Danny, play holiday hits on his steel drum!

Best Buddies in the news

Best Buddies Citizens Launches in Rochester

Best Buddies adult friendship program comes to Rochester, MN

2022 OH BB Creates Social Opportunities 1

Best Buddies Creates Social Opportunities for Students with IDD

Best Buddies Creates Social Opportunities for Students with IDD and Improves School Culture According to New Faculty Advisor

Cindy Crawford attends the Best Buddies 24th annual gala in Miami, where she was given the ‘Spirit of Friendship’ award.

Best Buddies holds 24th annual gala in Miami, supermodel Cindy Crawford awarded ‘Spirit of Friendship’

MIAMI (WSVN) – It was a night of celebration in Miami for the non-profit organization Best Buddies. Best Buddies International held its 24th annual gala celebrating the organization’s mission and honoring the dedication of supporters and volunteers.

John Drew

The Diane Ray Brown Lifetime of Friendship Award

John P. Drew the 2022 recipient of The Diane Ray Brown Lifetime of Friendship Award

Best Buddies Global Ambassador Delaina Parrish

“Anything is possible if you work hard, dream big, and have the support and encouragement from friends.”

MIAMI (WSVN) - It was a night of celebration in Miami for the non-profit organization Best Buddies. Best Buddies International held its 24th annual gala celebrating the organization’s mission and honoring the dedication of supporters and volunteers.

Best Buddies holds 24th annual gala in Miami, supermodel Cindy Crawford awarded ‘Spirit of Friendship’

MIAMI (WSVN) – It was a night of celebration in Miami for the non-profit organization Best Buddies. Best Buddies International held its 24th annual gala celebrating the organization’s mission and honoring the dedication of supporters and volunteers.

Best Buddies Miami Challenge cyclists ride on the General Douglas MacArthur Causeway, which overlooks downtown Miami.

Miami Beach Best Buddies Challenge raises money for people facing intellectual, developmental disabilities

MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) – A non-profit organization brought love to Miami Beach with a huge fundraiser. Best Buddies hosted an event that challenged participants to bike 75 miles through Miami alongside a fleet of police officers, Friday morning.

Best Buddies Celebrity Ambassador, Cindy Crawford is having fun with two female Best Buddies Program Participants.

Best Buddies International To Host Its Best Buddies Challenge: Miami And 24th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami Benefiting Individuals With Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

MIAMI, November 17, 2022 – Best Buddies International is thrilled to present its 24th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami at Ice Palace Studios on Friday, November 18.

A wonderful opportunity for people 45 years of age and under.

Join the Seacoast Young Professional Advisory Board

A wonderful opportunity for people 45 years of age and under.

HI Now screenshot

BBHI on HI NOW

Best Buddies in Hawaii was featured on HI Now!

A group of Best Buddies Challenge: California cyclists and program participants pose by the Finish line.

19th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: California Presented By Core Hydration & Safeway Foundation Raises Over $2 Million For Best Buddies International

Marin County, CA. – (October 25, 2022) – The 19th annual Best Buddies Challenge: California presented by Core Hydration & Safeway Foundation raised $2 million for Best Buddies International.

Brian Harnish, Bangor Citizens Participant

BBME Citizens: Brian Harnish

Bangor Citizens Participant Brian Harnish Shares What Inclusion Means to Him.

NJ Post Marianne Rose featured image

“My experience so far…” with Marianne Rosa

Marianne Rosa, Pre-ETS participant, highlights what she’s learned so far.

CA Featured Image Kulture City

Best Buddies CA is Certified Sensory Inclusive

Best Buddies CA staff receives sensory inclusive certification from Kulture City.

A group of Best Buddies Program participants walk down the street, arm in arm.

The Mosaic Company Partners With Best Buddies In Florida To Decrease Barriers and Improve Access For People with IDD

Decreasing Barriers and Improving Access For People with Intellectual and Development Disabilities.

The Kennedys and the Shrivers: Generations of commitment to disability inclusion

The Kennedys and the Shrivers: Generations of commitment to disability inclusion

Ever since a childhood diagnosis that resulted in the amputation of a limb, Ted Kennedy, Jr., has been an advocate for the civil rights of people with disabilities.

NDEAM 2022

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Join us on October 19th from 1 pm. – 2 p.m. ET for the virtual event

An Evening of Opportunity (Donation)

Best Buddies Founder & CEO, Anthony K. Shriver, is surrounded by a group of Miami Living Participants.

Here’s What’s Happening at Best Buddies Living Miami!

Best Buddies Living Miami is the first location in the state of Florida. The program officially launched in February 2022 and is currently accepting residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Best Buddies participants spend a day with pageant queens in Miami, Florida.

Best Buddies participants spend day with pageant queens in Miami

Best Buddies’ has teamed up with pageant queens for a day of fun and friendship. Reigning Miss Colombia and Miss Germany enjoyed Wednesday afternoon with Best Buddies participants.

Newport International Polo Series

Best Buddies at Newport Polo All Charity Day

July 14, 2024
Portsmouth, RI

The classic 6-chukker match will begin at 5pm. Gates open at 3pm.

Four Best Buddies Racing Team members on their bikes.

Best Buddies International Statement On The Best Buddies Racing Team

Best Buddies International congratulates the Best Buddies Racing Team on an incredible two-years of racing with a purpose by competing in elite bike races across the U.S. to illuminate the skills and people within the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community.

Tennis & Pickleball Tournament In Memory of Matt Roggenburk Sr. flyer

Tennis & Pickleball Tournament In Memory of Matt Roggenburk Sr.

Saturday, October 29, 2022 4:00 - 8:00 pm Avon Oaks Tennis Center 32300 Detroit Rd, Avon, OH 44011 Join friends and family for a pickleball and tennis tournament in memory of Matthew Roggenburk Sr. There is no minimum donation to attend or play but Colleen Roggenburk has designated Best Buddies [...]
Valerie Strange with child

Valerie Strange Spotlight

Board member Valerie Strange talks about her involvement in Best Buddies.

Best Buddies Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year Gala: Connecticut

Oct. 3, 2025
Plantsville, CT

Join us for our annual fundraising competition and gala.

Allison with chapter member holding an award

Best Buddies as a Life-Long Journey

Exceptional student leaders tell how Best Buddies shaped their path

Different the Musical

Learn more about a musical created by Best Buddies participant, Tyler Daynes!

St. Christopher Fitness logo

St Christopher Fitness is nominated to become Albany’s Champion of the Year

Starting their 12 week campaign with an awesome news feature!

Best Buddies in WNY participants celebrating at the Champion Kickoff event

Kicking off Champions in WNY!

Starting the 2022 Champion Season off right!

Sheridan and Carole at a running race

Meet a Citizens Match!!!

NYC Citizens Match: Carole and Sheridan

Male best buddies participant with female champion of the year event attendee

Three ways to get involved with Champion of the Year

Champion of the Year is here. Find out how to get involved!

Buffalo Bills players with Best Buddies participant

Buffalo Bill Tyrel Dodson host First Ever Mini Golfing with the Buddies Event

Buffalo Bill Tyrel Dodson and Friends join Buddies for a day of fun!

Group of Best Buddies participants holding up socks

Best Buddies visits John’s Crazy Socks

Best Buddies on Long Island visits new facilities of John’s Crazy Socks

Best Buddies in California 2022 Leadership Conference

Best Buddies Leadership Conference 2022

Local Leadership Conferences were a HUGE success!

Learn about this incredible community project & their support of local programs!

Max’s Garage & Best Buddies PA Partnership

Learn about this incredible community project & their support of local programs!

Best Buddies in Pennsylvania Ambassador Aldyn with her speech coach, Abby Martucci

Mission Moment – Meet Aldyn Atkinson!

Discover how much Best Buddies has meant to Aldyn over the past 11 years.

Best Buddies in New York Friendship Pair Janice and Judy

Meet Janice & Judy, Best Buddies Citizens pair since 2016

A message from Judy about her friendship with Janice…

Bixby West has been recognized as Elementary School Chapter of the Year!

Congratulations Bixby West Elementary School

Bixby West has been recognized as Elementary School Chapter of the Year!

One female participant with two male participants, smiling at the camara

Three Texas students selected for Young Leaders Council

Three Texas students have been selected for the upcoming YLC term.

Student leaders enjoyed a fun and engaging Leadership Conference in Washington!

That’s a wrap on BBLC!

Student leaders enjoyed a fun and engaging Leadership Conference in Washington!

Student leaders enjoyed a fun and engaging Leadership Conference in Kentucky!

That’s a wrap on BBLC!

Student leaders enjoyed a fun and engaging Leadership Conference in Kentucky!

Group shot at event

That’s a wrap on BBLC!

Student leaders enjoyed a fun and engaging Leadership Conference in Colorado!

Chapter of the Year collage

Congratulations USC Beaufort

USC Beaufort has been recognized as College Chapter of the Year!

Group shot at event

BBLC was a blast!

Student leaders enjoyed a fun and engaging Leadership Conference in Georgia!

Best Buddies in Colorado Buddy Pair Molly (left) and Liz (right)

Chapter Spotlight: University of Colorado Boulder

BBCO recognizes Chapters that uplift our mission even when challenges arise!

Party for a Purpose

Party for a Purpose Cocktail Reception

November 6, 2024
New York, NY

Party for a Purpose will celebrate the inclusion of people with IDD in New York.

Team Construction’s Best Buddies Friendship Ball (Guest Form)

Team Construction’s Best Buddies Friendship Ball (Registration-offline)

Team Construction’s Best Buddies Friendship Ball (Donation)

Team Construction’s Best Buddies Friendship Ball (Registration)

Sorry, but this year's event has sold out. We hope you can join us next year.
Best Buddies Founder and CEO, Anthony Shriver is surrounded by seven Best Buddies Ambassadors at the finish line at the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

Bikers trek 100 miles for the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port

BOSTON (WHDH) – The Best Buddies Challenge returned for its’ 23rd ride on Saturday as some bike riders made up to a 100-mile trek from Boston to Hyannisport to raise money for the nonprofit.

Best Buddies Supporter, Olivia Cumpo, and a female Best Buddies participant are shown inside a MOD's Pizza, next to a Mod's Pizza Value Meal sign.

Mod Pizza Introduces New Value(s) Menu That Gives Back

MOD’s inaugural Value(s) Menu partner – now through August 22 – is Best Buddies International, the world’s largest organization dedicated to helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With today’s announcement, MOD plans to donate $500,000 to Best Buddies to help support their mission of inclusion through programs that support integrated employment, one-to-one friendships, leadership development, and inclusive living communities.

Buffalo Bills team up with Best Buddies for non-football fun Lead Image

Buffalo Bills team up with Best Buddies for non-football fun

Henrietta, N.Y. — On a day off from training camp at St. John Fisher University, several Buffalo Bills players took a field trip to Henrietta. They met up with their Best Buddies.

A group of Best Buddies Supporters, participants and Employees gather at the Best Buddies Mother's Day Brunch..

5th Annual Best Buddies’ Mother’s Day Brunch Presented by Live Nation Raises $450,000 for Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Best Buddies International raised $450,000 at the 5th Annual Best Buddies’ Celebration of Mothers in Malibu, California. The funds will expand the organization’s mission of inclusion through one-to-one friendships, leadership training, jobs, and integrated living opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

A Girl and Boy Best Buddies Participants attend a prom hosted by Eastview High School.

Best Buddies fosters lifelong friendships

Before Erik Wanberg graduated from Eastview High School in 2019, he had been part of the school’s Best Buddies chapter for two years.

Birthday Bash FUNdraiser banner

Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser

Year-round
Virtual Event

the Inaugural Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser for New Mexico!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser – MYHQ

Year-round
Virtual Event

the Inaugural Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser for New Mexico!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser – donate

Year-round
Virtual Event

the Inaugural Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser for New Mexico!

Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser – Register

Year-round
Virtual Event

the Inaugural Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser for New Mexico!

Birthday Bash FUNdraiser banner

Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser

Year-round
Virtual Fundraiser

The Inaugural Best Buddies Birthday Bash FUNdraiser for New Mexico!

Actor, Filmaker, & Disability Advocate, Tal Anderson speaks with TV Show, Good Morning America.

Actor champions inclusivity in front of the camera

Meet Tal Anderson, the young actor, filmmaker and disabilities advocate shining a spotlight on her fellow storytellers and highlighting the contributions of people with autism.

Miss USA 2021, Elle Smith, poses with models from Smile Train and Best Buddies Internationnal for the Miss USA LipSense® Collection Campaign.

SeneGence® Announces Miss USA LipSense® Collection

In partnership with Miss USA, SeneGence is proud to announce the launch of the Miss USA LipSense Duo. From the proceeds of this launch, SeneGence will be donating $50,000 to Smile Train and $50,000 to Best Buddies International.

Deeper Sense of Belonging: One Perspective on Black History Month: Joseph Canty as a child

Deeper Sense of Belonging: One Perspective on Black History Month

2022 is now in full swing. February is here and we’re all picking up new routines and ways of thinking about the world and our place in it. For me, February has always been something quite different. The month serves as a reminder of what my ancestors worked hard for and where my family comes from.

Robert Adams, Best Buddies Jobs participant

Meet Robert, Best Buddies Jobs Participant

“I have been with Best Buddies since 2013. I have participated in many of the programs, internship and Ambassador. I recently joined the Jobs Programs and with Best Buddies' help. I am employed at a local retailer. This is my job, and I am so thankful to be a part of [...]
Quarterback Tom Brady, with three male Best Buddies participants on the field at Havard Stadium in Boston, Massachusetts.

Tom Terrific’: Brady giving of time, talent when it came to his Best Buddies

Article from WHDH News.

Quarterback Tom Brady, with three male Best Buddies participants on the field at Havard Stadium in Boston, Massachusetts.

Tom Terrific’: Brady giving of time, talent when it came to his Best Buddies

Tom Brady saw people on the sidelines and worked hard to bring them into the game.

Party for a Purpose Cocktail Reception – Donation

In Memory of Ryan James Xenakis

January 20, 2022
Zoom

Join us for a fun game of movie trivia!

Best Buddies in Hawaii January 2022 e-Newsletter Header

Best Buddies in Hawai’i Newsletter: January 2022

Read the latest news for Best Buddies in California!

riders in malibu

Best Buddies Breakaway Camp: Malibu

Dec. 3-7, 2025
Malibu, CA

A once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.

As we celebrate this holiday season, please meet some of our Best Buddies participants.

Inclusion Lives Here – Mission Stories

As we celebrate this holiday season, please meet some of our Best Buddies participants.

Best Buddies Challenge Miami, cyclists leave the start line in South Beach, Miami.

Cycling pros join 70-mile Best Buddies Challenge

MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) – A Best Buddies cycling challenge took participants on a 70-mile tour of parts of Miami-Dade County.

A group of cyclists ride in the Best Buddies Challenge: Miami over the the MacArthur Causeway. The downtown Miami skyline and the cruise ship in the Port of Miami can be seen in the background.

Four-time Tour De France Winner Chris Froome Headlines the 2021 Hublot Best Buddies Challenge: Miami Charity Bike Ride Benefitting Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

MIAMI, Florida – Best Buddies International is thrilled to announce that four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome joined professional cyclists George Hincapie and Christian Vande Velde for the Hublot Best Buddies Challenge: Miami on Friday, November 19.

AL NNT

MOD Pizza Partnership Champions Workplace Inclusivity

MOD announced a nationwide partnership with Best Buddies International…

MOD announced a nationwide partnership with Best Buddies International…

MOD Pizza Partnership Champions Workplace Inclusivity

MOD announced a nationwide partnership with Best Buddies International…

A group of Best Buddies cyclists ride along a winding road in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts

Join Celebrity Chef Guy Fieri and Challenge Yourself to Change Lives at The 22nd Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port presented by Pepsi-cola and Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation

Boston, September 28, 2021 – Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is excited to announce that the 22nd Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, presented by Pepsi-Cola and Shaw’s and Star Market Foundation, will take place in-person October 1 – 2 from Boston to Cape Cod.

Oklahoma Cocktails for a Cause (Donation)

Oklahoma Cocktails for a Cause (Registration)

America's Recovery Powered by Inclusion Global Best Buddies NDEAM Event Wednesday, October 13, 2021 1-2 PM EST on Zoom Join Best Buddies, Inclusively, Dr. Greg Nelson, Joshua Felder, and Jeffrey Tamburo as we discuss disclosing disabilities and accommodations in the workplace. Visit Bestbuddies.org/NDEAM

Celebrating #NDEAM – America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). The theme for NDEAM 2021, “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion,” reflects the importance of ensuring that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have full access to employment and community involvement during the national recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Two Male Best Buddies participant's smile.

Best Buddies in Oregon Newsletter

Back to Life, Back to Reality

Best Buddies Logo on purple background

Best Buddies Thanks Maureen Daly

Best Buddies formally thanks Maureen Daly for fulfilling her commitment and pledge to the Best Buddies.

Ben’s Patio Party

Join the Cox Family for Ben's Patio Party, benefitting Best Buddies in Ohio. Date: Saturday, September 10, 2022 Time: 6:00 PM Location: Lakewood Country Club Hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be available. Donations support Best Buddies inclusion programs in schools in Northeast Ohio. To learn more about Best Buddies, visit [...]
In-store poster.

PDQ and Best Buddies International Partner to Raise Funds for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Guests can donate at all Florida PDQ locations from August 3 through August 31.

Three girls proudly show their Certificate of Completion for the Best Buddie's Sleepover.

High School Students Get a ‘Taste’ of the Best Buddies Living Program in Washington, D.C.

According to the report, “A Place in this World,” approximately 75% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live with their parents and 62% of those people dream of having their own apartment. Best Buddies Living is an opportunity for people with disabilities to reach that goal.

Feed Test

One-to-One Friendship Programs Best Buddies Friendship programs represent one of our organization’s four key mission pillars.  These programs build one-to-one friendships between people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), offering social interactions while improving the quality of life and level of inclusion for a population that is often [...]
Friendship walk event participants walking at event

Best Buddies Friendship Walk

May 29, 2021
Virtual Walk

Join us as we walk in support of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion.

Meet Skylar and Maddy

In 2018, Center High School in Antelope, California brought the Best Buddies Friendship Program to their school for the first time. Becca is the mom of Skylar, who joined Best Buddies during its founding year and shared, “Best Buddies was one of the most amazing happenings in my daughter’s life, [...]
Samantha Poyser

Best Buddies Alumni Highlight: Samantha Poyser ‘08

Samantha Poyser ’08 is currently a student at UC Santa Barbara pursing her PhD with a specialization in Special Education.

Sarah Leifeste

Best Buddies Alumni Highlight: Sarah Leifeste ’09

Sarah Leifeste resides in the greater Houston, Texas area where she is the Director of a mobile dance company called Shine Music and Dance.

David Quilleon with Buddies Steven Clarke and Caley Versfelt.

Staff Profile: David Quilleon

In often segregated landscapes including school and work, the need and dependency for friendships is vital…

Buddy Ambassador James Walker and Best Buddies Alumna Dr. Karen Valdes

Celebrating Friendship With Dr. Valdes and Ambassador James Walker

James Walker grew up in Florida in the Miami Gardens area and was first introduced to Best Buddies while in middle school in 2007…

Jennifer Allen and buddy, Ashley, at Miami University of Ohio in 2009.

Staff Profile: Jennifer Allen

After an accident that left her father with a traumatic brain injury, Jennifer Allen, Best Buddies’ Director of International Programs, was inspired to unite…

Best Buddies Friendship Program participants Maggie and Jenna smiling outside

What to do after Graduation

How to continue your involvement with Best Buddies after you graduate.

Inclusively Partners with Best Buddies

Best Buddies Jobs participants are encouraged to add new Best Buddies Affiliation tag to profile

Inclusively is excited to announce our new partnership with Best Buddies International, the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

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