Best Buddies Citizens is a community-based adult friendship program that pairs people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in one-to-one friendships. This free social program provides opportunities for volunteers to connect and form friendships with individuals outside of their typical social circles. Everyone wishing to match must fill out an online application, background check, and meet with staff for an interview. Matches are made based on age, interests, and proximity. Volunteers are paired for a full calendar year and expected to communicate with their new friend once a week and meet up twice a month. The Best Buddies office hosts monthly social events for the entire group, in and around Washington D.C. Staff check in regularly to see how friendships are going, offering guidance and training when needed.
COVID-19 Update:
During this time of social distancing, Best Buddies continues to connect people in virtual friendships and hold regular activities that can be attended over the computer.
6231 Leesburg Pike, Suite 310, Falls Church, VA 22044, US
Mission Statement
Best Buddies is an international non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development.
Description
Best Buddies Virginia & DC works to create opportunities for inclusion at all ages through friendship, jobs, and leadership programs. There are 64 active school chapters and a community-based adult friendship program, Best Buddies Citizens. Our jobs program finds full-time, integrated employment for individuals with IDD. Our Ambassador program creates opportunities for leadership development through speech writing workshops and advanced leadership training's. We have the potential to grow all of these programs with the help of volunteers. Become a Best Buddy today, and help spread inclusion to your community.
