Best Buddies International

Imagine a world in which people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are fully integrated into our schools, workplaces, and communities, and where they are valued for the skills and abilities they bring. That's the world that BBI works every day to create. At area schools (elementary through college) youth-led Friendship Chapters (93 in DC and VA) match students with IDD and their “typical” peers to enrich the lives of both. After graduation, young adults can join a program that sponsors social events and new friendship matches and a jobs program that helps them secure meaningful employment. Training in speech writing and public speaking empowers participants to share their stories and become self-advocates. Establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with IDD – that's the powerful vision.