Best Buddies Connecticut is proud to shine the spotlight on our Star Participants of the Month: Cross Street Intermediate Best Buddies! This brand-new middle school chapter, located in Naugatuck, CT, opened its doors this past fall and has already experienced incredible success in its very first year. With a mission to promote one-to-one friendships and inclusion, this chapter has truly made a difference in the lives of its students.

A Year of Growth and Friendship

Since its launch, the Cross Street Intermediate Best Buddies chapter has welcomed over 50 enthusiastic members, all eager to create lasting friendships. The students have embraced the program with open hearts, showing kindness, inclusion, and a willingness to connect with their peers in meaningful ways.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the chapter’s success has been watching students form genuine friendships. They have learned to play games inclusively, ensuring that everyone gets an opportunity to shine. Whether they’re working together on creative projects or sharing a moment of laughter, the bonds they are forming go beyond the classroom.

Highlights of the Year

• Holiday Crafts & Ornaments: Students came together to create beautiful holiday ornaments and crafts, spreading joy and strengthening their friendships.
• Read with a Buddy Program: This daily sign-up sheet is always full! Students love reading together so much that many are even willing to skip recess to spend time with their buddies.
• Inclusive Play: The chapter has fostered an environment where all students feel welcome to participate in games and activities, making sure everyone has their moment to shine.

Advisors’ Perspectives

The impact of Best Buddies at Cross Street Intermediate has been truly inspiring, as shared by the chapter’s dedicated advisors:

Megan Murdy (General Education Advisor):

“Best Buddies has completely changed the way my students think about inclusion. It has created a space where everyone feels accepted and valued, and it’s really boosted their confidence and sense of belonging. The program has truly created a culture of kindness and understanding that has made our whole school feel more connected. Watching this happen has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my teaching career.”

Liz Dematos (Social Worker Advisor):

“Seeing students, who would otherwise not talk to or interact with each other, playing, laughing, and enjoying each other has positively impacted the overall community at our school. Students are more inclusive and accepting of each other’s differences and are much more likely to include each other.”

Sarah Parzuchowski (Special Education Advisor):

“I can’t describe the incredible impact Best Buddies has had on my students just within these first few months. The friendships that have formed between my students and their peers are so beautiful and genuine. The kindness and acceptance our buddies show each other has spread throughout the school, and it has truly helped our school become a more inclusive space.”

Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Day

This past week, the Cross Street Intermediate Best Buddies chapter celebrated Down Syndrome Awareness Day in a very special way. The students created an inspiring video sharing 21 facts about Down syndrome, raising awareness and uplifting their buddies with Down syndrome. Their message of inclusion and understanding was a powerful reminder of the positive impact that Best Buddies has on school communities.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/AHxsgPof7Xo

Want to Start a Chapter Like Cross Street Intermediate?

If you’re inspired by the success of the Cross Street Intermediate Best Buddies chapter and want to start one at your school, we’d love to connect with you! Best Buddies provides schools with the tools and support needed to create an inclusive environment where friendships can flourish.

Let’s make a difference together!

Email us at connecticut@bestbuddies.org to learn more about how you can start a Best Buddies chapter in your community.