I am so pleased to turn our Community Service focus to the Best Buddies program. The basis of this program is to create “one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).” Best Buddies is a worldwide, non-profit organization that impacts 800,000 individuals.
Making the mark: Emily Rodriguez
“Currently a sophomore at Arrowhead High School, I decided to join Best Buddies. Best Buddies has been one of the best experiences I have had in high school. Not only have I made amazing friends, but I also learned the importance of friendship. Students with intellectual or developmental disabilities want to enjoy the high school experience like everybody else. One thing they sometimes lack is a friend. People often overlook their ability to make friends. My buddy is Vanessa. We love watching movies and playing “Just Dance” together. Vanessa has taught me the capabilities of people with a disability. She also taught me how much I should value friendships that I have. Best Buddies has also led me in the direction of special education. I never would have known that would have been an interest of mine if I had not joined. For people in middle school, high school, college, and outside of school, I highly recommend Best Buddies. It is a positive life-changing experience. ” 
Making the mark: Kelli Dittmann
“Best Buddies is truly one of the best clubs offered at school. As a sophomore, this is my first year of Best Buddies, and it’s already been amazing. Sometimes kids with mental or physical disabilities don’t make friends easily, and Best Buddies makes sure everyone has a friend. Best Buddies has really taught me a lot throughout the year. It’s taught me about including everyone, being a good friend and a leader. But the best thing about Best Buddies are the friends you make! My buddy Angela and I love to swim, watch movies, and just laugh! She’s such a great girl, and getting to know her and the other buddies this year has been so special! This is such a great club to be involved in, and I will definitely keep these memories with me forever!”
Making the mark: Cathy Nordwig
“Hi! My name is Cathy Nordwig, and my mom is helping me write about my experiences with Best Buddies. When my middle school started a Best Buddies chapter, it was one of the best things to ever happen to me. Now I am a senior at Arrowhead High School in Hartland, Wisconsin. Best Buddies has allowed me to go places and do all the things that “regular” kids do. A group of Buddies just went to prom together, and we rode in a real limousine. It was awesome! The friends I have made in Best Buddies are really amazing.”
To find a Best Buddies program near you and to take part like Emily, Kelli, and Cathy are doing, visit www.bestbuddies.org.
Find your passion.
Get Involved.
Make your mark.