Sam Harrington (pictured right) is a junior at Roosevelt High School and has been involved with Best Buddies since his freshman year of 2022. During Sam’s sophomore year, he was matched with his buddy Sanel Pehlic, a current sophomore (pictured left). The two have been friends and matched for two years now. Sam is the current Chapter President at Roosevelt High School, and he wanted to join Best Buddies to make an impact by making a difference in other people’s lives, beyond mere student leadership.

“I just want to be able to play a role in making others happy,” Sam shared.

During Sam’s first meeting his junior year, the Roosevelt chapter finally began to see a big jump in the program. They went from 5 members to around 30, which came thanks in great part to Nicole James, the advisor at Roosevelt, and other members as well. In March during Inclusion Week, Roosevelt High School hosted a family inclusion event where they had their student athletes play a game of basketball. It was a wonderful time and a great turnout—many people throughout the Best Buddies community came out to support, lead, and encourage the buddies.

One of Sam’s favorite memories was from BBLC 2024. Last year, it gave him the opportunity to meet Kyle, the Lincoln High School Best Buddies President—who is now one of Sam’s best friends. Below is a photo of Kyle (left) and Sam together at the Iowa Wolves Special Olympics game a few months ago. Both love to play basketball together.

Sam’s message that he would like to share with others in the community about the importance of inclusion and friendship is that you never know the impact that a small, seemingly insignificant act can have on someone.

“One simple conversation or comment may stick with someone for much longer than you may think. In general, I just encourage people to try to expel as much empathy as possible.” Sam says.