"Around 200 million people worldwide live with IDD, and many face isolation — socially, physically, and economically. Best Buddies works to change that by building real relationships and real opportunities. Families of people with IDD also get support through the organization."
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including those with Down syndrome, autism, and Fragile X. It connects people with IDD to one-on-one friendships, jobs, leadership skills, and inclusive housing. It also supports their families. Programs are open to people with and without IDD, and volunteers play a big role in making connections happen.
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, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Best Buddies serves individuals with IDD and their families. The IDD community includes, but is not limited to, people with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, Williams syndrome, and other undiagnosed disabilities.
Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.
BESTBUDDIES®
Five Mission Pillars
One-To-One Friendships
Builds friendships between people with and without IDD, offering social mentoring while improving the quality of life and level of inclusion.
Integrated
Employment
Secures jobs for people with IDD, allowing them to earn an income, pay taxes, and support themselves.
Leadership Development
Educates and empowers people with and without IDD, to be leaders, public speakers and advocates.
Inclusive
Living
Providing a vibrant, integrated living opportunity for people with and without IDD.
Family
Support
Family support and resources to raise a child with IDD.
- Visit the Best Buddies website to explore which program fits your situation
- Sign up for the e-newsletter to get updates on programs and events
- Look into volunteering as a buddy or mentor in your area
- Share this resource with a family raising a child with IDD
- Explore employment and leadership programs if you or someone you know has IDD
- Call Best Buddies directly to ask about local opportunities
