Spotlight on Best Buddies

The Best Buddies Friendship Program aims to foster inclusivity and friendship for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). This in-school program pairs students with an IDD with a peer without a disability, forming meaningful, long-lasting one-to-one friendships. Through the Friendship Program, students receive invaluable support, gaining leadership and life skills, a sense of belonging, and improving their overall quality of life. Feeling safe and included in school environments not only enhances learning outcomes but also cultivates a more inclusive community.

For students without IDD who serve as mentors, the program offers an opportunity to make a positive impact by providing companionship, guidance, and support to their peers with intellectual or developmental disabilities. By fostering empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, these mentors help create an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted.

Support from the Sifton Family Foundation has helped Best Buddies Canada reopen (following the pandemic closure) the Friendship program in 24 schools across London & Middlesex, Guelph, Brantford, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Mississauga and establish the program in 20 new schools in the same cities.