One-to-One Friendship

I was matched with Jared Plants sophomore year of high school. We have spent one year as buddies, and it has been a great experience. Jared has a vibrant personality and constantly makes me laugh and brightens my days. I look forward to the time we spend together both in and out of school.

In school, I often visit his class for an hour a week, where we watch music videos and football videos, along with interacting with his classmates. Jared’s favorite thing to do is go out for ice cream; a love we both share. Jared and I constantly get frozen yogurt and ice cream and go for walks and paint together.

I can honestly say that joining the Best Buddies program has been the best decision of my high school career because of the constant joy and satisfaction being involved in such a positive program.

Jared and I have been not only Best Buddies but best friends for two years.

More than anything, I love seeing his face light up in the hallway when I walk by and knowing that we are both making a difference in each other’s lives. Jared brightens my day whenever I spend time with him, and I know he does that for so many others as well.

Having such a strong Best Buddies program at Cumberland High School has impacted the environment at our school. I can confidently say that the majority of students in our school know every single one of our buddies by name, and many consider them friends. I am so proud of our chapter and its impact on changing the negative stigma around holding relationships with those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Halie Walton
Peer Buddy
Cumberland High School Best Buddies

Halie and Jared are a perfect match and an exemplary model of the standards and values of the Best Buddies Organization. These two teens share inside jokes, laughs, and genuinely enjoy being around each other.

Halie is patient and encouraging towards Jared, and Jared really brings Halie out of her shell. They are an example to other students at CHS, as well as anyone involved in Best Buddies.

Nicole DeFazio
Faculty Advisor
Cumberland High School Best Buddies

One-to-One Friendship

Joining the Best Buddies Citizens pair program has been such a rewarding experience for me! When I initially signed up, I wasn’t sure what to expect and I am so happy I took the chance to be paired with a buddy.

My best buddy, Stephanie, has grown to more than just my “buddy”; she’s a really good friend of mine! We have so much fun getting together every month, whether it’s going to our favorite restaurants, shopping, or attending Best Buddies events – we always have a great time.

I thought that signing up for this program would mean I was making a difference in someone else’s life, but she’s made a difference in mine and has shown me what it means to truly be someone’s best buddy!

Sarah
Citizens Peer Buddy

When Stephanie and Sarah first met, it was a hit right away! They bonded over their love for travel and eating healthy. Throughout their months matched, I read nothing but great things in their friendship updates.

The girls went shopping together, met each other’s families and friends, participated in multiple Best Buddies Rhode Island events and went to many different restaurants across the state.

Through thick and thin, Steph and Sarah have been there for each other. Every time I see Steph, she only has wonderful things to say about her “best friend Sarah. You can truly see Steph light up when talking about her buddy, and vice versa.

Life after Best Buddies has been completely different for both women. Steph is now an ambassador for Best Buddies Rhode Island and Sarah now has someone to text all the time and someone that cares for her no matter what.

This pair is truly an inspirational match and I strive for more matches to be like them.

Caroline DeCataldo
Best Buddies Citizens Program Manager

One-to-One Friendship

It has been two years since Haley noticed Carolyn working the check-in desk at her job at the YMCA. Haley hadn’t seen Carolyn at church in quite some time and went over to say hello. Carolyn shared that the reason she hadn’t been to church in a while was because she didn’t have a ride to get there.

“Do you think you could take me?” Carolyn quickly asked.

“Yeah I think I can do that!” Haley replied.

Little did either of them know that such a simple exchange would lead to such an incredible friendship.

Haley began spending time with Carolyn and learned about Best Buddies and the impact it had made on her life. After attending several events together, Haley applied to the Citizens program, eager to become Carolyn’s official buddy. On Valentine’s Day, they were matched!

Carolyn and Haley’s friendship is unique in more ways than just its beginnings as a natural friendship. The two have a bond that is absolutely beautiful to watch, attending concerts and sporting events together, and having girl’s nights and sleepovers regularly. Carolyn even credits her “style” to Haley’s influence, and both ladies love getting dressed up and going out on the town together.

Becoming an official buddy pair has opened some amazing doors for them. The pair are extremely passionate about promoting the mission of Best Buddies and talk about our organization with anyone who will listen.

They have shared their touching story at numerous speaking engagements, including the 2017 Hyannis Port Challenge, leaving listeners in tears.

Haley competed in last year’s Nashville Champion of the Year campaign with Carolyn right by her side as her official campaign manager. The two took full advantage of Haley’s Champion of the Year platform and put on several events, determined to raise as much money and awareness for Best Buddies as they possibly could.

Their hard work paid off and Haley was the runner-up, raising $12,000! The campaign ended at Party with a Purpose where Haley and Carolyn danced the night away in their coordinated 1920’s attire.

Haley has experienced such inspiration from her friendship with Carolyn, growing increasingly passionate about serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Haley felt led to make a career jump and pursued a new path with Best Buddies.

She was recently hired as the Citizens Program Manager at Best Buddies Tennessee. When asked what made her decide to pursue a different career path, her answer is simple: Carolyn.

Leadership Development

Angelica has defied the odds and was chosen to speak during the closing ceremonies at Best Buddies Leadership Conference. She was also chosen for the new Ambassadors Leadership Academy and took “Partners in Policy Making” courses in Nashville this year.

Before graduation, her final project was on Best Buddies and her desire to work with the Jobs program to help people with disabilities find employment. Her story is truly remarkable and she has touched many lives with her testimony.

“Being positive is the key to my existence and everyone has a struggle that they want to overcome. I do not want my cerebral palsy to define me. By the time I was twelve years old, I had lost everyone in my family.

My mom passed away when I was twelve and my father passed away when I was a baby. I had an older sister, but she passed before I was born and my grandparents all passed away. I was born in San Francisco, California, but grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. I went into foster care and then I had to go back to San Francisco to become emancipated.

I left San Francisco on a Grey Hound bus after saving up all my money and headed back to Memphis. I had made up my mind that I was going to live independently.

Something was still missing and that was friendship.

I had heard about the Best Buddies college program at the University of Memphis and I decided to join. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. There, I met Madison, my buddy. She went from being my buddy to being my family. Madison does not see my disability, she sees me.

She supports me in my dreams and we both compete together in beauty pageants and we have both won many. My biggest achievement was winning the National Miss Amazing.

I want to show people who don’t have disabilities that people with disabilities are capable of doing anything. I want to help people with disabilities get employed. I want to show people with disabilities that they are capable.

Best Buddies has put so many people in my life that love me and care about me. It makes me feel so good. Best Buddies is a wonderful program.”

Angelica Allsup
Best Buddies Ambassador

“Angelica and Best Buddies have changed my life for the better. I know that she is going to be an imprint on so many people’s lives and it’s incredible.” – , Best Buddy

Madison Snipes
Angelican’s Buddy

Leadership Development

Hi! My name is Sarah and I am a Best Buddies Ambassador in Houston, Texas. I started my Best Buddies journey back in 2006 at James E. Taylor High School. Back then, I was quiet and did not have many friends.

I found out about Best Buddies after my teacher, Mrs. Campbell, told me it would be a good way to meet new people and make new friends. Little did I know that joining Best Buddies in 2006 would change my life.

Fast forward to 2008, I got my first taste of leadership as a Buddy Director for my high school chapter. I liked having my voice heard, so I also decided to become a Best Buddies Ambassador that same year.

Being a Buddy Director and an Ambassador boosted my confidence so much that when I graduated, I decided that I wanted to start having more responsibilities; I decided that moving out of my parent’s house was the next step.

My journey to independence was not easy. It started with finding a job. I currently work at Sweet Heat Jams, where I serve jam with the confidence this job has given me. I am now ready to take on even more responsibilities. After getting this job, my step was moving into my own space. At first, it was difficult getting used to my new surroundings, but with the help of my friends and family, I made the adjustment.

My experiences with Best Buddies has made me step out of my comfort zone. As an Ambassador, I am now able to tell people why it is important for people with IDD to have jobs and independent lives. Last year, I went to the Best Buddies Leadership Conference and got to hear some very inspirational stories.

These stories made me realize that I can do anything if I set my mind to it — anyone can. As an Ambassador, I am now able to share my story and tell people why it is important for people with IDD to have jobs and lead independent lives

Best Buddies helped make all of this happen,  and I am thankful to be able to share my journey with you.

Sarah Fugitt
Best Buddies Ambassador

One-to-One Friendship

Pizza, parties, bowling, movies, smiles, and laughs. These are just a few words that describe the friendship between Aimee Rodriguez and Andre Simon. Aimee has been a Best Buddies participant at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas since September 2015.

“I didn’t know what Best Buddies was until I got to Southwestern University. My aunt who has special needs has lived with my family since I was in 9th grade, so I knew what it was like to develop a close friendship with someone who has special needs,” said Aimee.

When Aimee was a freshman in college, she met the Best Buddies crew at an Activities Fair and completely fell in love with their purpose within the community. That’s when she decided to get involved with the organization.

“This year is the first time I’ve been paired with a buddy, because the last two [years] I’ve been an associate member. I hope to get more people involved in this organization before I graduate from Southwestern.”

Matched in September 2017, Andre and Aimee have already become such close friends. They spend time with each other at the chapter’s bi-monthly events and holiday parties. The movie release of Marvel’s Black Panther has been one of the highlights of their friendship.

“Andre and I are really into watching movies, in particular, superhero movies. Anytime there’s a fight scene, he’s sure to move along to the punches and kicks,” said the college student. ” He’s always sure to give each of us the parts in the movie and he tends to be the hero of the plot. We also go bowling and try to attend any of the free events that Southwestern hosts for the students.”

Since joining Best Buddies, Aimee has led the chapter by not only fulfilling multiple officer positions but also by developing close relationships with the Buddies in their chapter.

“The Buddies constantly remind me to always be myself and to own who I am. They constantly inspire me to want to do more, go out and volunteer, to sing and dance. As I’ve come to know, a lot of our buddies are volunteers all throughout the community and every time we put on an event, they are never afraid to go up in the front and perform something.”

The Best Buddies Friendship Walk is the leading walk in the country supporting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (also known as IDD).

Since 2009, more than 150,000 participants in 60 cities have walked to raise awareness for inclusion, friendship, leadership development, and integrated job opportunities for people with IDD. Funds raised at the walks help move our mission forward by funding local Best Buddies programs. Each walk provides a unique opportunity to see our mission in action at a local level. Every dollar raised goes towards making the world a more inclusive, accepting place.

First Tuesday of Every Month
7-8 PM

Best Buddies Rochester
1000 Elmwood Ave, Suite 3500
Rochester, NY 14620

Best Buddies New York is looking for individuals to be involved with our WNY Programs Committee! Join us at 7pm the first Tuesday of every month starting October 2, 2018 to talk about all things Best Buddies.

Email Kelly Gardner at KellyGardner@bestbuddies.org if interested in joining.

Dates
Oct. 2, 2018
Nov. 6, 2018
Dec. 4, 2018
Jan. 8, 2019
Feb. 5, 2019
Mar. 5, 2019
Apr. 2, 2019
May 7, 2019

March 6, 2019

Morrison Regional Library
7015 Morrison Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28211

Join us on March 6th at the Morrison Regional Library for the BBNC Friendship Walk Call Night! This get together will be a super fun night to celebrate and spread the word about the walk!!! Come whenever you can & get ready for some AWESOME prizes! We will also do something special to honor Spread the Word: Inclusion Day!

DON’T FORGET:
1. Your phone
2. Your laptop (if applicable)
3. Phone numbers & email addresses for all of your favorite people– WE WANT THIS WALK TO BE PARTY!!

We cannot wait for the 3rd Annual Best Buddies North Carolina Friendship Walk on April 6th. We are very excited to return to Symphony Park (at SouthPark Mall) for a fun, family-friendly celebration supporting friendship and inclusion! Let’s come together on March 6th to make sure EVERYONE is included in the fun!

March 16, 2019

Wilmington, DE

76ers Fieldhouse

The games are approaching fast. The coaches and players are pumped and ready to show off their talents. But are you ready to watch the best high school basketball all stars? Buy your tickets and check out the All-Star Games rosters below and be prepared to watch your favorite player on the court.

T-Rex Solutions, LLC announced as Title Sponsor for the 2019 Walk

College Park, Maryland, March 12, 2019 – Best Buddies International, a groundbreaking nonprofit founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is excited to announce T-Rex Solutions is once again the Title Sponsor of the 2019 Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Maryland. This year’s Friendship Walk will be held May 4, 2019, at the University of Maryland’s Xfinity Center Pavilion.

“The Friendship Walk plays a key role in funding Best Buddies programs that creates one-to-one friendships, leadership development, integrated job opportunities and inclusive living for individuals with IDD, and one that also allows the community to see our mission in action at the local level,” Vince Fiduccia, State Director for Best Buddies in Maryland, said.  “We are honored to have T-Rex Solutions as the official title sponsor for the second year in a row. We’re excited to continue our partnership with a company who is equally as passionate about our mission and paving the way for a more inclusive society for individuals with IDD.”

Best Buddies Maryland is expecting over 2,000 participants lacing up their shoes to walk for inclusion, all working towards raising over $315,000 to support the organization’s local friendship, jobs, and leadership development programs. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.; the 2-mile walk will begin at 10 a.m. at the University of Maryland’s Xfinity Center Pavilion in College Park, Maryland. Following the walk, please join Best Buddies Maryland for food, drinks, and friendship games. The day’s activities will conclude at 1 p.m.

“Our employees enjoyed this event last year and are ready to put on their walking shoes again! Events like this that support family values and provide our employees with a way to give back to the local community are important to us at T-Rex” said Valerie Utsey, Chief Human Resources Officer.

Those interested in participating in the Friendship Walk are encouraged to register on the walk website: http://www.bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/maryland. Participants can create or join a team to raise awareness and funds with family, friends, and co-workers.

Proceeds for the Friendship Walk are fundamental in supporting programs that can be found in 115 schools statewide and impacts more than 5,500 individuals with and without intellectual and development disabilities.

Walk for inclusion. Walk for friendship. Walk for a better Maryland.

On March 6th, Best Buddies participants attended a Career Development Day hosted by Google for Education. The event was kicked off with a speech by David Asbury, a Best Buddies Jobs participant at JLL as well as a Best Buddies Ambassador, Citizens Participant, and the 2018 Best Buddies Employee of the Year! Following his inspiring words, participants from the Metro NYC area worked with Google employees to discuss their resumes and problem-solving in the workplace as well as practice mock interviews. They concluded by talking about the next steps of landing a successful job!

Wednesday, April 17
4-10pm

Any Five Guys Restaurant in NH

Come by and grab a burger for Buddies and register for the walk if you like.
10% of proceeds go to Best Buddies NH!

July 1, 2019

12 PM: Registration & Lunch
1 PM: Tee Off

Woodhaven Country Club
7200 Woodhaven Rd
Louisville, KY 40291

The 2019 Best Buddies Golf Outing will take place on Monday, July 1 at Woodhaven Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky. This event will feature a day out on the links for golfers to help fundraise for Best Buddies Kentucky. Lunch will be provided and we’ll award some awesome prizes to the top foursome, longest drive, closest to the pin and much more!

Foursome: $500
Foursome + Hole Sponsorship: $600
Hole Sponsorship: $300

For any questions, contact Emily Bruenderman at emilybruenderman@bestbuddies.org or 502.742.1698