Fairfield University is proud to host a chapter of Best Buddies, a respected international nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering friendships and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The core mission of the club is to create meaningful one-on-one friendships that promote inclusivity. One of Best Buddies’ main components is partnering individuals with and without disabilities to develop these meaningful connections.
At Fairfield, the chapter actively engages its members through monthly meetings and events that are designed to build connections and have fun! In the past, they have had Halloween parties, bowling nights, cookie decorating, pizza and karaoke socials and more.
This semester, the club kicked off its first meeting with fun activities featuring board games and karaoke, giving members a chance to bond. They also made signs of encouragement to support the Fairfield University field hockey team. Later that week they brought enthusiasm and their signs to cheer on the field hockey girls during a game.
Junior Anne McFarland, one of the chapter’s presidents, highlighted the organization’s growth over the past year. She also noted that the “chapter is in collaboration with Woofgang in downtown Fairfield and Trumbull Transitions”.
Woofgang, according to its online website, is a nonprofit organization that helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through vocational skill training, life-long learning and social opportunities. Members engaged in the program are a part of curriculums that go through producing, packaging, marketing and selling handmade dog treats and pet toys.
Woofgang is located in the center of Fairifled’s downtown, making it a perfect place to drop in, especially if you have a pet.
A recent addition to Fairfield’s involvement with Best Buddies is hosting the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, an annual fundraising event. The event raises awareness and funds to support the organization and its mission of inclusion.
Last year, the Best Buddies Friendship Walk was held on April 28 at Lessing Field, bringing together club members, students, community members, families, and supporters. The event raised funds for local and national Best Buddies programs, expanding their impact and overall message. Having the opportunity to participate on campus drew in a large number of students, as they wouldn’t have to leave campus to get involved.
Sophomore Abigail Concaugh shared her excitement about the chapter with me. With prior experience in Unified Basketball during high school, she was thrilled to join Best Buddies at Fairfield. She feels it is a good way to help make a difference in the community.
Next weekend Best Buddies is having an induction ceremony to the Fairfield University chapter. Concaug, along with other new members, will be inducted and meet their assigned buddy.
She also shared that she is eager to continue building friendships and promoting inclusion on campus.
If you are interested in connecting with the chapter, life@fairfield has the organization and club president’s email to reach out to. To follow along with their mission and journey, follow @bestbuddiesfairfieldu on Instagram.
Overall, Best Buddies aims to break down social barriers and provide opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive in school, the workplace, and beyond. Fairfield University’s chapter is making significant strides in creating a more inclusive community, making it something everyone should consider getting involved in.
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