We are incredibly proud to highlight our Connecticut Champion of the Year winners, Dave and Andrew. Through hard work, teamwork, and a passion for giving back, they were able to achieve remarkable success in raising awareness and funds for the Best Buddies cause.

Dave, a resident of West Hartford, began volunteering at a young age through his parents’ guidance. Dave’s journey with Best Buddies began a few years ago when a friend and colleague, Darrel Gibson, who also serves as a Best Buddies Connecticut board member, encouraged Dave to participate in and support the annual Friendship Walk. This year, he was asked to be a Champion of the Year candidate—an opportunity and challenge he decided to go for. Dave also became Andrew’s buddy, and together, they began their fundraising journey that would bring them closer both as friends and as advocates for the Best Buddies mission.

Andrew’s involvement with Best Buddies began when he was a freshman in high school. His Best Buddies experience has been one of consistent dedication. “I served as Buddy Director for my chapter at Southington High School and again at UCONN. I am currently in the Citizens program, and I am an Ambassador. I also serve on the Advisory Board,” Andrew shared. His involvement spans many roles, each contributing to his deep connection with the organization.

For Dave, participating in the Champion of the Year event was a great experience. “It was harder than I anticipated,” he admits, “and it made me appreciate what the Best Buddies team does every day to raise money, awareness, and support for the IDD community.” To Dave, the event was about celebrating the organization’s broader goals and the relationships that form through its programs. He described the event as inspiring, and a real win for the Best Buddies Connecticut Team and the IDD community. Dave further highlighted how his friendship with Andrew was strengthened throughout this experience.

Andrew, too, was deeply moved by the experience. When asked about his reaction to winning Champion of the Year, “I was amazed and excited,” Andrew said. “Dave and I worked hard to raise all the money we could throughout this campaign, and I’m very grateful for this opportunity.” For Andrew, the Champion of the Year event was a great opportunity to celebrate the impact of the organization. “It was a wonderful experience,” he continued. “Dave and I enjoyed every moment, from being introduced as Champions to bidding on the auction items, and of course, the announcement that we had won. It was a great opportunity for us to give back to a worthy cause.”

For Dave and Andrew, the message to others considering joining Best Buddies is simple and clear. “Do it!” Dave says with enthusiasm. Andrew echoes this, adding, “By joining this awesome organization, they will make a huge difference in someone’s life.” As they look ahead, Dave and Andrew are both eager to continue their work with Best Buddies. They’ve already proven that they can make an impact, and their partnership stands as a testament to the power of inclusion and friendship.