The energy was palpable as Best Buddies Chapter leaders from across South Dakota gathered for our first in-person Local Leadership Training Day! We were thrilled to see such a fantastic turnout and are deeply grateful to everyone who invested their time to join us.

These dedicated leaders are the heart of our mission, working tirelessly to ensure high-quality, inclusive experiences for all Best Buddies members in their communities. Our training days are designed to empower students and advisors with the essential skills, confidence, and tools they need to lead their chapters effectively throughout the school year.

The day was filled with enriching sessions and collaborative learning, all set against a backdrop of beautiful floral arrangements generously donated by Jane Rae Events. Each participant was able to take a piece of the day home with them! We extend our sincere thanks to our wonderful hosts at Special Olympics South Dakota for their exceptional hospitality and for providing such an accommodating space.

Of course, no training day is complete without delicious refreshments! We were fueled by fantastic food from Granite City and Natural Grocers, ensuring everyone stayed focused and engaged throughout the session.

A special highlight of the day was the opportunity to connect with Buddies and Co., a local non-profit that employs Best Buddies alumni. They treated us to delightful drinks and provided a valuable platform for discussing integrated employment, a crucial aspect of our mission.

This successful training day has left us energized and inspired. We are already looking forward to our next event and hope to see even more of our amazing leaders there!