Plymouth State University’s Best Buddies chapter was selected as this year’s Campus Compact for New Hampshire PSU President’s Community Partner Award!

This award is given to a non-profit organization that has enhanced the quality of life in the community in meaningful and measurable ways and engaged in the development of sustained and reciprocal partnerships with the University. The Chapter Co-Presidents, Caylin Bessette and Marissa LoGrasso, will be presented with the award at the annual Presidents’ Awards Ceremony in April.

The Plymouth State Best Buddies Chapter is part of the BBNH School Friendship Program, designed to create opportunities for individuals with and without disabilities to connect in friendship and leadership. There are 25 members of the PSU chapter, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the local community. The group meets twice a month to engage in social activities and promote inclusion on campus and local communities.

Students who choose to be paired in a 1:1 meaningful friendship, or Buddy Pair, are matched based on age, gender, and shared interests. This provides a unique opportunity for individuals with IDD to feel connected to the community and experience college life. Our student leaders participate in 3 leadership training sessions each year, providing inspiration and best practices to manage their chapters and build inclusion in their communities. It also allows them to connect with chapter leaders worldwide who have the same vision of inclusion for their campus.

We are proud of our chapter leaders and members who work to build a stronger and more inclusive community!