Best Buddies International

About

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, the organization has grown from a single school club to nearly 3,000 chapters across the United States and internationally. Best Buddies is the world's largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families. We operate in all 50 US states and have international presence, making a profound impact through our Five Mission Pillars: One-to-One Friendships, Integrated Employment, Leadership Development, Inclusive Living, and Family Support.