This past January Best Buddies New York was lucky enough to host 4 that’s right 4 in person Back to Best Buddies! Back to Best Buddies is a way to learn, regroup and plan for the rest of the 2023!! Here are some recaps from each of our regions!

Albany: “Albany Best Buddies student leaders from 6 local high school and colleges attended our Back to Best Buddies training, furthering their leadership skills and knowledge of Best Buddies. Thank you to the William K. Sanford Town Library for hosting us! It was a great morning of connection and learning!” – Shannon, Program Manager Albany

WNY: “We had 10 all-star student leaders attend our WNY Back to Best Buddies on January 20th! We had a great time chatting about leadership selection, BB360, fundraising and more. Looking forward to a great spring semester and walk season!” – Julie, Program Manager Western New York

NYC: “12 student leaders from around New York City met on January 20th to discuss the upcoming Friendship Walk, Leadership Conference, Friendship Ball, student leadership transitions, and more Spring occurrences! They shared strengths and struggles of their chapters, role played hypothetical scenarios, and learned from each other’s experiences over pizza.”- Rosie, Deputy Director of Programs

Long Island: “11 student leaders from Best Buddies chapters on Long Island participated in the Back to Best Buddies training on January 20th at The Spirit of Huntington Arts Center. In addition to learning about leadership skills, Best Buddies chapter updates, and connecting with their fellow chapter leaders – students in attendance also learned about the artist Keith Haring (who designed the infamous Best Buddies logo) and created their own Haring-inspired artwork. Thank you to Michael and Ingrid for leading the art portion of the training and getting us so inspired by how Haring and Best Buddies supports inclusion and disability awareness. We are so excited for the spring of Best Buddies on Long Island!”- Isabel, Program Manager Long Island