Join us in extending our congratulations to Brooklin Heeren for being selected as our September Changemaker! The Changemaker series recognizes Best Buddies Illinois participants who are making an exceptional impact on their community in advancing the mission of friendship and inclusion.

Brooklin has been involved in Best Buddies for seven years, serving in multiple leadership roles in various programs. She first became a chapter leader at her high school in Central Illinois. Later, Brooklin was selected as a State Ambassador for Illinois to further make an impact on Best Buddies.

Her Program Manager Abby Gustafson shares, “Brooklin has grown so much since joining the ambassadors program. [She] is always looking for the next opportunity to share her story or attend the next training so she can continue to strengthen her skills as an ambassador.” Indeed, Brooklin is always eager to speak to others about the impact Best Buddies has made on her life. Most notably, she delivered a powerful speech at the 2023 Central Illinois Friendship Walk!

Brooklin is smiling as she stands at the Friendship Walk podium delivering a speech. To the left of her is an ASL interpreter and a Best Buddies Illinois staff member. To the right is a Friendship Walk volunteer.

Now, Brooklin is starting her journey with the Jobs program, where she is learning valuable professional skills to help her successfully transition into a job. Within just a few months, she is already thriving in this program.

“With a passion for working with children and engaging with the community, Brooklin is a natural fit for the Best Buddies mission,” her Employment Consultant, Matt Medlin said. Currently, Brooklin is exploring different career options with the eventual goal of working with people with disabilities. “As she continues to grow and develop through our Jobs Program, Brooklin is sure to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.”

Earlier this summer, Brooklin had the opportunity to attend the 2024 Best Buddies Leadership Conference! She thoroughly enjoyed the experience to improve her leadership skills while joining the Ambassadors track. Brooklin even had the chance to meet Anthony Kennedy Shriver!

Brooklin is smiling and standing in the lobby of the Indiana University Assembly Hall. To the right of her is Anthony Kennedy Shriver who is holding his thumbs up. To the right of Shriver are two other Best Buddies Illinois participants.

Keep up the amazing work, Brooklin! Are YOU interested in nominating someone or yourself to receive the Changemaker Award? Fill out our nomination form HERE. To be selected for the following month, please submit this form no later than the 15th of the month. We look forward to continuing to feature amazing individuals who are advancing the mission of inclusion!