On Saturday, May 5, Best Buddies set off with other local chapters to walk through Milwaukee raising awareness and funds for the inclusion of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The walk began at Manpower Group and walked along the river and back to the celebration with music, food, and dancing.

Many chapters were represented at the walk, and those who donated $50 received a Friendship Walk T-shirt. So far, the walk has raised $78,945.34 and supporters are still donating. “The Best Buddies Friendship Walk was an awesome event! I loved being able to celebrate the inclusion for all and support the Best Buddies mission!” Emmery Wilson, junior and Best Buddies Co-President said.

Best Buddies is an international organization with a mission of creating a global movement providing opportunities for personal relationships, integrated employment and leadership development for individuals with intellectual and developmental disorders. “Best Buddies has been an amazing platform for inclusion and seeing all the lives it‘s changed during my four years,” Alyssa Bokotey, senior and Best Buddies vice-president shared. The Homestead Best Buddies chapter has monthly after-school meetings to get together, celebrate holidays, and enjoy snacks. Both associate members and peer buddies enjoy these events as well as other trips to mini golfing, bowling, and sports games. Associate members come to these events while peer buddies have another buddy to spend time and keep in contact with each month. “The most enjoyable part about being more involved in Best Buddies and operating the chapter is being more aware of all the amazing relationships that are built through Homestead Best Buddies. It’s a special feeling to know about the friendships that are more valuable than anything to the buddies, and some that will last a lifetime,” Joe Nelson, junior and Best Buddies president commented.