Best Buddies High Schools
In our high school chapters, students with intellectual disabilities, or “buddies,” are paired in one-to-one friendships with high school students, or “peer buddies,” based on common interests. The buddy pairs make a commitment to contact each other at least once a week, and to engage in a one-to-one activity together twice a month. Although the chapter’s student leaders plan group outings, special events, and fundraisers for all the chapter members to enjoy, the one-to-one friendships are the core of the program. Buddy pairs do everyday things—they eat lunch together, go to the movies, or just hang out with each other. In this way, the buddies explore new friendships and widen their social circles, while the peer buddies learn about leadership, community service, and their roles as future leaders in their communities.
What We Do Matters…
Socialization. Students with disabilities benefit from positive peer relationships, which lead to greater self-confidence and stronger communication skills.
Awareness. Peer buddies gain a heightened awareness of issues that students with disabilities face, and learn to see beyond labels and stereotypes. They make a difference in someone else’s life and their own, setting an example of acceptance and support for the rest of the school and the local community.
Inclusion. Both increased socialization and awareness support the goals for inclusion. Students with disabilities are encouraged to become active in other school activities.
Leadership Development. Best Buddies program staff encourage students to run their chapters, and work to develop the leaders within them.
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR REGISTRATION:
To complete a new application, please follow these steps:
1) Go to www.bestbuddiesonline.org/default.aspx
2) Scroll over “Membership Application” and select your program type
3) Select “New Member” and click “Continue”
4) Complete the application
5) Have a parent complete the consent form if under the age of 18
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"The Spider Web" Activity from the Meet and Greet meeting on January 10, 2013.