Thank you for your support. You’ve made friendships like Angelica and Madison’s possible all around the world, and for that, WE LOVE YOU!

Here at Best Buddies, our mission is rooted in love because the love we receive from our friends motivates us, strengthens us, and allows us to endure during difficult times.

Friendships like Madison’s and Angelica’s demonstrate the power of our Friendship program. They have been best buddies for over two years and love to go to the movies together, shop, travel, and compete in beauty pageants. Angelica is the current National Miss Amazing — a pageant that celebrates and empowers girls and women with disabilities. Madison and Angelica are also fierce advocates of the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign to end the hurtful use of the R-word.

My best buddy Angelica has been such a light in my life! We recently went to Chicago to compete in Miss Amazing, which Angelica won! She’s my best friend…she’s become a part of my family. That’s what’s so great about Best Buddies, you don’t just get a friend, you also get family.

We’ve had the opportunity to travel together to places like the Best Buddies Leadership Conference and spoken in front of commissioners. I’ve gained so much from this friendship. She’s a testament of how to live your life. She’s overcome so many hardships in life, and graduated college and is working hard at her life goals. She’s absolutely amazing. She is the kind of woman I want to be.

– Madison Snipes

Instead of seeing my disability, Madison sees me. She’s someone I can talk to and be myself with. We love to get our nails done, eat, and go to each other’s pageants. Best Buddies has given me so many wonderful opportunities and allowed me to meet so many amazing people.

Best Buddies has not only given me Madison, but her family as well—we’re one big family. I love her and her mom and dad. I would not know what to do if it weren’t for Best Buddies. I’m so glad the University of Memphis had a Best Buddies program!

– Angelica Allsup

Today we celebrate those who have brought love and friendship into our lives. I hope Angelica and Madison’s story will encourage you to join our movement and create more friendships just like theirs.

If you’re already enjoying a Best Buddies friendship, share your pictures and stories on social media using #ILoveBestBuddies. Can’t wait to see your photos and read your stories!

In Friendship,

Anthony K. Shriver
Founder & Chairman
Best Buddies International