You’re making a difference.
Message From Our State Director
Dear Friends,
All of us at Best Buddies in Georgia extend our deepest appreciation to our wonderful participants, families, volunteers, donors, and corporate partners for such a successful 2025! Your support and dedication to our mission helps our programs grow, creating more inclusive communities throughout our state.
Happy Holidays to you and yours and here’s to continued growth in 2026!
In Friendship, Stephen Barwick State Director, Best Buddies in Georgia
Here’s what we’ve accomplished, Because of your support in 2025
31 20 Cities |
58
Total Chapters
13 Elementary Schools
13 Middle Schools 23 High Schools 6 Colleges 140 Citizens Participants
2,400 Total Participants
24,000 Impacted Counties
One-to-one
Friendships
Meet Amari and Calethia
Being matched with my buddy, Amari through Best Buddies has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life and added to it greatly. Our friendship isn’t about differences; it’s about laughter, loyalty, and simply showing up for each other. She reminds me every day that connection is the most powerful gift we can share..”
-Calethia
Integrated Employment Program
8
5 Participants Employed Participants
Integrated Employment
Meet Ryan
Having a job has made a difference in my life. It made sure I'm living my best life and I found a great work family outside of my home.”
Leadership Development Program
40 Ambassadors Participants
Leadership Development
Meet Shivam
Best Buddies has brought the true meaning of inclusion to light, opening doors and opportunities for me that I never thought possible. My ability is stronger than my disability.”
-Shivam
Best Buddies Living is more than just a place to live. It’s a community filled with wonderful people who have become my family."
-AnnCatherine
Raised $62,000
Nearly 600 participants, corporate partners and community members walked for inclusion!
In July, nearly 50 leaders from all over Georgia, both with and without IDD, attended our 34th Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference. They participated in personalized trainings that develop the skills needed to organize and lead a Best Buddies chapter!
Raised $135,000
Nearly 250 supporters came together for our annual Gala in celebration of the collective efforts of our seven Champions who raised funds and awareness to support our mission!
Champions are made from something they have deep inside of them - a desire, a dream, a vision.” -Mahatma Gandhi
