Best Buddies High Schools works to match students with intellectual disabilities with high school students from general education to create one-to-one friendships. In today’s high schools; students with intellectual disabilities often enter the same building and walk the same hallways as their peers, but they are left out of social activities. By introducing Best Buddies into public and private high schools, we are crossing the invisible line that too often separates those with disabilities from those without.

Meeting Days and Times: Life Skills Classroom During Lunch

Club Motto:

 "Embrace Differences, Foster Friendships, and Build Brighter Futures Together" 

Club Objectives:

1. Establishing Meaningful Friendships

1. 1. Foster genuine and lasting friendships between individuals with and without disabilities.
   2. Promote mutual respect, understanding, and trust between Buddy pairs.

2. Promoting Inclusivity and Acceptance

1. 1. Create an inclusive school or community environment where differences are celebrated.
   2. Challenge stereotypes and biases through personal connections and interactions.

3. Enhancing the Quality of Life

1. 1. Improve the overall well-being and happiness of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
   2. Provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging to all participants.

4. Developing Social and Communication Skills

1. 1. Help individuals with disabilities build social and communication skills through regular interactions.
   2. Improve the ability of all participants to relate to and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

5. Empowering Personal Growth

1. 1. Encourage personal growth and self-confidence in both Buddy pairs.
   2. Foster a sense of purpose and responsibility in the Peer Buddies.

6. Raising Awareness

1. 1. Increase awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.
   2. Promote a culture of empathy, inclusion, and support within the school or community.

7. Advocacy and Community Building

1. 1. Engage in advocacy efforts to promote disability rights and inclusion.
   2. Strengthen the bonds within the school or community through collaborative initiatives.

8. Long-term Impact

1. 1. Cultivate a sense of social responsibility in the Peer Buddies, encouraging them to continue promoting inclusion beyond the program.
   2. Measure and track the long-term impact of Best Buddy partnerships on the lives of participants and the broader community. These objectives collectively aim to create a program that not only enriches the lives of individuals with disabilities but also enhances the social and emotional development of all participants while fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society.

Who Can Join?

Membership requirements for the Best Buddies program can vary depending on the specific chapter or organization, but here's a general outline of common membership requirements:

1. Age and School Enrollment
   1. Participants are typically high school or college students.
   2. Must be currently enrolled in the respective school or educational institution.
2. Commitment
   1. Members should be willing to commit to the program for a specified period, often a school year or semester.
   2. Commitment includes regular participation in Buddy events and activities.
3. Application and Registration
   1. Prospective members usually need to complete an application or registration process.
   2. This may include providing personal information, contact details, and availability.
4. Parental/Guardian Consent (for minors)
   1. Minors may require parental or guardian consent to participate in the program.
   2. Parents/guardians may need to sign waivers or provide contact information for emergencies.
5. Training and Orientation
   1. Members may be required to attend training or orientation sessions.
   2. These sessions cover program guidelines, inclusion principles, and communication strategies.
6. Background Checks (if applicable)
   1. Depending on local regulations and the population served, members may need to undergo background checks or screenings.
7. Respect and Inclusivity
   1. Members must commit to treating all participants with respect and dignity.
   2. Embrace and uphold the values of inclusivity, empathy, and acceptance.
8. Regular Participation
   1. Members are expected to actively engage in Best Buddies activities and events.
   2. Regular attendance at meetings and planned outings is encouraged.
9. Communication
   1. Maintain open and respectful communication with Buddy pairs and program coordinators.
   2. Promptly notify program leaders of any issues or concerns.
10. Support Program Goals
    1. Members should align with the objectives and mission of the Best Buddies program.
    2. Actively contribute to promoting inclusivity and friendship within the community.
11. Code of Conduct
    1. Adhere to a code of conduct or behavior guidelines set by the Best Buddies program.
    2. Respect confidentiality and privacy.
12. Financial Commitment (if applicable)
    1. Some chapters may require members to pay a nominal membership fee or contribute to cover event costs.
13. Volunteering and Leadership Opportunities (optional)
    1. Members may have the option to take on leadership roles within the organization or volunteer for specific tasks. It's important to note that these requirements can vary, and prospective members should consult their local Best Buddies chapter or organization for specific details and expectations. The goal is to ensure that members are committed to fostering meaningful friendships and promoting inclusion within their school or community.

What Will We Do?

"In our High School Peer Buddies program, dedicated high school students commit to forming one-to-one friendships with their peers in special education classes, whom we affectionately refer to as 'Buddies.' This unique initiative offers numerous benefits to the Peer Buddies, enriching their high school experience in several meaningful ways:

Heightened Awareness: By becoming Peer Buddies, students gain a heightened awareness of the challenges and issues that individuals with intellectual disabilities often face. They get a firsthand glimpse into the daily experiences and unique perspectives of their Buddy, fostering empathy and understanding.

Breaking Stereotypes: Our program encourages Peer Buddies to look beyond the labels that society frequently attaches to individuals with disabilities. Through personal interactions and shared experiences, they discover the richness of each Buddy's personality, talents, and aspirations, challenging preconceived notions and stereotypes.

Making a Difference: One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Peer Buddy is the opportunity to make a significant impact on someone else's life. By offering friendship, support, and inclusion, Peer Buddies not only enhance the lives of their Buddies but also experience personal growth, realizing their ability to effect positive change.

Moreover, our Buddy Pairs serve as powerful role models within our school and the broader community. Through their interactions and friendships, they exemplify acceptance, respect, and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting a culture of inclusivity and understanding.

In essence, our High School Peer Buddies program fosters genuine connections, promotes empathy, and champions inclusivity, ultimately creating a more compassionate and accepting school environment while equipping our students with valuable life skills that extend far beyond their high school years."