2022 – New Year, New Opportunities

The new year has already been off to a great start. Since you last heard from us, we have inducted 4 new state ambassadors, hosted 3 middle and high school hangouts, had 8 new participants join our Jobs program, and found 2 new jobs placements. And this is only the beginning! We want to make 2022 our best year yet. And with your support, we will be set up for success.

Meet Our Newest State Ambassadors!

We love our Volunteers!

Meet Rob, Best Buddies Leadership & Jobs Volunteer from the Bay Area

Describe your current and previous involvement with Best Buddies?

"I was made aware of BB in 2011 when my daughters became active in their high school in Weston, Florida. My oldest daughter, Lauren, had a buddy and was very active in her life. When we moved to LA in 2014, both of my daughters started the first chapter at La Canada High School."

How has Best Buddies impacted your life?

"I love advocating for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and seeing the impact that Best Buddies has on their lives. I've gained a tremendous amount of respect for those with IDD and their families."

Why is inclusion important to you?

"I love the effort put forth to help those with IDD find jobs, live independently, make friends, etc. Inclusion has become the catch-all term used to define so many categories. It's my goal to make sure that people with IDD are front and center when it comes to focusing on inclusion."

What is your favorite Best Buddies memory?

"Getting involved in the jobs program and hiring Lindi!"

What is a goal you have for 2022?

"Rehire an employee in the Best Buddies Jobs Program."

What is something you are looking forward to in 2022?

"More in-person events and taking part in Friendship Walk 2022 with my work team!!!"

Countdown to the Friendship Walk Begins!

We are so excited to have our 2022 Friendship Walk in person for the first time since 2019! Friendship Walk Launch Week is right around the corner and will be kicking off on February 7th.

During Launch Week, we will reveal our 2022 Friendship Walk shirt design, announce this year’s incentive items, and give away fantastic prizes! Make sure to mark your calendar and register for the walk closest to you.

Los Angeles: Saturday, April 23rd @ Shoreline Park

Sacramento: Saturday, April 30th @ North Natomas Regional Park

San Diego: Sunday, May 1st @ TBD Location

San Francisco: Saturday, April 23rd @ Golden Gate Park

Get Involved with Best Buddies

Do you want to learn more about Best Buddies and how to get involved? Join our February orientation! In just 30 minutes, you will learn about our mission, programs, and local volunteer opportunities. Plus, you'll get to meet other awesome individuals interested in making an impact!

February Volunteer Orientation
Wednesday, February 16th
5:00 pm-5:30 pm

To sign up, contact Richard Nakai at RichardNakai@bestbuddies.org.

January Events Calendar