Students are urged to participate in their schools’ Best Buddies chapters to foster a sense of community and reduce the stigma surrounding disabilities.
Michelle Stiller/Courtesy Image
Best Buddies, a national non-profit organization with local chapters focused on promoting inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is organizing a dance event to showcase the expanding presence of Best Buddies chapters in the Roaring Fork Valley.
The initiative establishes chapters in schools nationwide to establish an inclusive environment for students with disabilities. The Colorado branch, established in Denver in 2018 and later extended to several valley schools, aims to raise awareness of the program and enhance community involvement through a community dance event, given the nascent stage of the valley chapters.
These chapters, comprising both students with and without disabilities, aim to foster friendships and camaraderie among participants.
“There is a significant need for individuals with diverse abilities to have a secure space to gather, dance, feel included, and partake in a joyous occasion within a safe setting,” expressed Best Buddies Colorado Director Rachael Fischer. “This event offers a no-cost opportunity for these young individuals to converge, dance, and celebrate inclusion and a sense of belonging.”
The Starry Night Friendship Ball is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, at The Arts Campus At Willits. The event is open to the public, welcoming students from chapters across the valley to participate.
In the valley, Best Buddies chapters have been established at Aspen Elementary, Middle, and High schools, Basalt Middle and High schools, Two Rivers Community School, and Glenwood Springs Middle School. This peer-to-peer program encourages students of all capabilities to form friendships and organize gatherings to socialize.
Students in these valley chapters are encouraged to take the lead in coordinating events and meetings. While most schools convene monthly, Aspen Middle School students meet weekly, as mentioned by Fischer.
The program emphasizes peer-to-peer friendships rather than mentorship, promoting acceptance and inclusion among peer groups. Best Buddies offers three training sessions annually for students interested in initiating their chapters.
According to Roaring Fork Valley Area Director Michelle Stiller, the program benefits not only students but also parents of children with disabilities by combating stigmatization and fostering meaningful relationships.
Stiller, a dedicated local disability advocate, joined Best Buddies to aid in the program’s expansion in the valley, reflecting on the lack of similar opportunities for her son, who has autism and is now an adult.
Beyond educational initiatives, Best Buddies provides leadership development, job training, and independent living programs for individuals with disabilities. Fischer highlights that groundwork laid at the school level can significantly impact students’ future success and contribute to reducing the stigma associated with disabilities from a young age.
“The primary challenge individuals with disabilities face in the workforce is navigating social nuances and complexities. By initiating friendships early on, we can cultivate leadership skills,” Fischer explained. “Starting with friendship at a young age, particularly in middle school where feelings of being different are prevalent, could be an invaluable asset in fostering acceptance and understanding.”