Best Buddies Pennsylvania

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, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, we are now world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with IDD. Our programs empower the abilities of people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communication skills, and feel valued by society. There are 130 Best Buddies Chapters in schools across PA from elementary through college level, a thriving Citizens Program engaging adults with and without IDD in one to one friendships and a dynamic Ambassadors Program providing public speaking and self advocacy training for individuals with and without IDD throughout the year. With the social isolation brought on by the pandemic, the need for Best Buddies' mission has never been greater. Contact us today to learn how you can get involved and make an impact.