2025 BBPA Tastebuds Program Book

P R O G R A M B O O K

Dear Friends,

Tonight reflects what makes this community so special, everyone is welcomed, included, and celebrated. For nearly 35 years, Best Buddies has championed the belief that meaningful friendships and opportunities can change lives. By breaking down barriers for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), we’re actively building a world where belonging is the norm, not the exception

Best Buddies continues to grow its reach across the globe, now operating in every state and in over 50 countries Right here in Pennsylvania, more than 170 schools are engaged in our programs, impacting close to 75,000 people each year.

This year’s TasteBuds celebration brings together 34 outstanding chefs and restaurants, each lending their talent and heart to our mission. Their participation is a powerful reminder of how much we can accomplish when our community comes together with purpose

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our sponsors, advisory board, committee members, Chefs, and Champions. Your dedication fuels our progress and makes nights like this not only possible, but extraordinary. As you enjoy the evening, we invite you to engage fully, meet new friends, savor the creativity around you, and take in the stories that reflect the spirit of Best Buddies

Thank you for being here, for believing in inclusion, and for standing with us as we continue to create spaces where everyone is celebrated.

Here’s to a joyful night and an inspiring year ahead!

In

Friendship,

Fallon DeRiggi

Fallon DeRiggi Director of Development, Western Pennsylvania Best Buddies International

Channing Powell

Channing Powell is a media personality and content creator who elevates brands and builds community through storytelling, social strategy, and on-camera presence. She serves as the face of Made in PGH, blending social media, events, and community partnerships to highlight the best of Pittsburgh Passionate about bringing stories to life through connection, creativity, and community, she was also named one of Pittsburgh’s “50 Finest” for her impact on the city. Channing is thrilled to help celebrate friendship, fun, and the spirit of inclusion at TasteBuds

AUCTIONEER

Matt Newsom

As a survivor of Hairy Cell Leukemia, Matt’s earliest gala involvement supported the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society the organization responsible for developing the treatment that put him into remission. Matt’s life experiences ultimately led him to benefit auctioneering, a role that allows him to bring together his greatest strengths in service to his nonprofit partners. Blending his talents, his passion, and his commitment to supporting meaningful causes has become the ideal path for Matt one that is both fulfilling and impactful

Lindley Diecks (Co-Chair)

Joyce Lofink (Co-Chair)

Elizabeth Fairweather

Maddie Grindle

Nathalie Hassoun

Digi Kramer

Hannah Lapiska

Allison Perciavalle

Claire Sabatine

Jamie Swanstrom

Rachel Webber

Julie Winn