20 individuals from Minnesota recently returned from the 2024 Best Buddies Leadership Conference at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. Best Buddies Leadership Conference (BBLC) unites Best Buddies leaders, volunteers, and community advocates from around the globe to imagine, create, lead, and empower the future of the disability rights and inclusion movement. Every year, BBLC inspires nearly 2,000 students, volunteers, and community leaders from around the globe to be inclusion advocates and to bring about social change in their communities.

This year’s conference theme, “Every Buddy Belongs,” represents our commitment to creating safe spaces in our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods so that every individual, regardless of ability or background, is embraced and valued. We celebrate the power of being part of an inclusive community, where individuals can be their authentic selves.

Danielle Dahlstrom witnessed exactly that with her son Aidan and said, “To say Aidan had the time of his life at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference is such an understatement. He was engaged in the sessions, loved meeting new people from across the county, and thoroughly enjoyed the evening celebrations. I’ve already noticed the sense of responsibility and fulfillment he feels from being part of something so special and important. I can’t thank the Best Buddies Minnesota leadership team enough. They offered support when needed, pushed Aidan when appropriate, and made this event a spectacular experience for all. My heart is bursting.”

This was Best Buddies Minnesota’s second year attending BBLC and the group included 7 students from 4 different high school chapters, 2 students from the University of Minnesota college chapter, and 6 adult ambassadors with IDD, as well as a few chapter advisors, parents, and support staff. Attendees listened to informative panels, collaborated with other state and national delegations, and deepened their passion for disability inclusion in their schools and communities. They can’t wait for the year ahead!

Sofia Fornicoia, co-president of Eastview High School’s Best Buddies chapter, expressed, “BBLC impacted me in many ways. I learned more about disability awareness and made friends that I hope I will have for a long time. I was also able to realize how big of an impact Best Buddies truly has on everyone with and without disabilities.”

Travel fees and most conference costs for each participant are covered by Best Buddies in Minnesota from funds raised throughout the year. Donations, sponsorships, and grants help Best Buddies in Minnesota create opportunities for true inclusion where individuals can be their authentic selves, learn to be leaders, and advocate for inclusion, like at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference.

Next year’s conference will be held July 18th – 21st at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. To learn more, visit https://www.bestbuddies.org/bblc/.