Clubs

What is Best Buddies?

Best Buddies is a global volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one and group friendships. It operates as a student-run club that creates families: groups that include students with and without disabilities. The club meets the third Thursday of every month and sponsors at least one large-group social activity per month. Best Buddies provides socialization opportunities, giving people with intellectual disabilities the tools to become more independent and included in the community. 

What are the different roles?

All members are expected to attend one monthly meeting (AM or PM) per month and at least 3 whole group events.

• A "Buddy" is typically an individual with an intellectual or other disability who needs peer and/or adult support to participate in club activities. 
  A "peer buddy/family member" will be placed in a group called a "family" with at least one "buddy" and can participate in whole and small group activities.
  A "family leader/1-1 match" will be responsible for organizing small group "family" activities and/or 1-1 activities with a "buddy" 
  A “fan” is an individual who can not commit to “family” responsibilities but still wants to enjoy club events and celebrate inclusion. 

Our first monthly meeting for the 26-27 school year is Thursday, September 17, before school (6:45) at South Campus Lab A or after school (2:50) at North Campus in the Junior Study Hall.

If you were unable to make the initial meeting but would like to join the club, please complete this electronic registration form and deliver your $35 dues to either Greeter by Thursday, October 2, 2026.

Questions? Contact:

AHSBestBuddies@arrowheadschools.org