About Us

Our History

About Us: Best Buddies is the worlds largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower the special 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.

This is an image of a special Best Buddies International event
In January 2019, Best Buddies elevates its mission to meet the significant need for inclusion by establishing Best Buddies Living, a residential living experience for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their peers. This new program represents the organizations newest and fourth key mission pillar, Inclusive Living.

This is an image of a special Best Buddies International event
In 2020, Best Buddies launches BESTBUDDIES Ventures an initiative that spreads the organizations mission, builds inclusive workplaces for people with IDD, and generates revenue, by creating co branded businesses with respected companies in the community. BESTBUDDIES X Rosetta Bakery is the first venture launched in June 2020 as an equal partnership that creates employment opportunities for individuals with IDD, and serves as a profit center for Best Buddies through a store front bakery and coffee shop.