In a year of isolation, virtual school + work, and social distancing, many of us are struggling to create + foster connections with those around us. So much has changed + changes can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who have limited opportunities for social interaction outside of a school setting.

In 2020, AARP released a report about loneliness in the time of Coronavirus + folks across all age groups reported having more negative emotions, feelings of isolation, and difficulty connecting with others – be it friends we already have or in trying to meet new people.

In looking for opportunities about how to make friends + build connections during this pandemic, we were really excited to find out that Best Buddies International is coming to Western North Carolina this month (March 25) with the launch of Best Buddies Citizens, Best Buddies’ adult friendship program.

Best Buddies is a national nonprofit that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, inclusive living for people with IDD, integrated employment, and leadership development opportunities.

The new Best Buddies Citizens program is a way for adults with and without IDD in corporate and civic communities to form friendships and it helps folks with IDD to become part of a more inclusive + mainstream community.

How does it work?

💛 Best Buddies Citizens creates friendships between adults with + without IDD.

💛 Friendships are made based on location, common interests, and age.

💛 The buddy pairs commit to one year of friendship – meaning they talk at least once a week + meet up at least twice a month. Meetups can be in person or virtually.

How do I become a buddy?

💛 Register for the virtual meeting on March 25 here.

💛 Fill out this application. There will be a background check + phone or video interview as well.

💛 You will be invited to join virtual social events to start making your connections.

💛 Once a match is found, you’ll be paired together to commit to your year of friendship.

As the friend queen Jennifer Aniston says, “there's nothing like a really loyal, dependable, good friend. Nothing.” If you decide to join this program, we would love to see your pictures (or screenshots) with your buddy.