In July, Best Buddies in Arizona traveled to Bloomington, Indiana, for the 2024 Leadership Conference. High school students, transitions participants, job participants, and ambassadors attended the event along with the staff and some Arizona Advisory Board members. Throughout the weekend, everyone was immersed in learning and fun, strengthening their relationship with Best Buddies.

We had six high school students in attendance, eager to learn new and exciting ways to make their chapter the best it can be this coming school year. They explored new event ideas, member retention strategies, making events accessible and inclusive, creating matches, and much more. Clara Matthews, attending for the first time this year, shared her enthusiasm: “I had an amazing time at BBLC! I made so many new friends and learned lots of valuable information. I want to bring everyone in my club and go again myself!”

Arizona was proud to have three participants in the Transitions track at BBLC. They participated in workshops that will help them prepare for life after high school. One fun experience they had was job shadowing with the Indiana University dining staff, gaining hands-on experience in the hospitality industry. They also participated in a job exploration scavenger hunt, encouraging them to explore different career opportunities on a college campus, and attended a goal-setting workshop.

The Arizona Jobs team featured five participants this year at BBLC. These sessions focused on self-advocacy, using technology to encourage independence, navigating career paths, and maintaining a work/life balance. We are excited to see our participants apply these new skills in their workplaces. It was a jam-packed and fun-filled weekend.

The Arizona team extends a huge thank you to Advisory Board Chair, Mike Kruse, and Absolute HCBS for sponsoring seven of our attendees. Without your support, they would not have been able to attend such an amazing event and learn valuable lessons to support Best Buddies in Arizona.