Best Buddies Nevada has changed lives by creating opportunities for friendship, inclusion, and personal growth Through its programs, participants form meaningful connections that celebrate their unique abilities and foster a sense of belonging. For many, Best Buddies is more than an organization it is a community where every individual is seen, valued, and empowered
Beyond friendships, the program inspires leadership and confidence. Ambassador training, public speaking, and community engagement equip participants with the skills to share their stories, advocate for themselves, and inspire others. Each success reflects the organization’s commitment to turning inclusion from a goal into a lived experience. This work is made possible by the unwavering support of the Nevada community. Families, schools, businesses, and volunteers contribute time, energy, and resources, helping the organization reach more individuals and expand its impact. Their generosity ensures that Best Buddies Nevada continues to break down barriers, create lasting friendships, and inspire a culture of acceptance. Through the dedication of participants and the support of the community, Best Buddies Nevada proves that connection, encouragement, and compassion can transform lives and in doing so, strengthen the entire community.
Thank you,
Celeste Brooks Director, Mission Advancement
Best Buddies Nevada
Thank You To Our Sponsors!
BidFromtheHeart
The Value of Your Donation Supp
Best Buddies helps form meaningful friendships, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communications skills, all while feeling valued by society.
$5,000
This giving level will support the efforts of bringing together with and without IDD for friendships that cultivate community wide social inclusion funding citizens events and Leadership Development trainings.
$2,500
This giving level funds our Ambassador Trainings held throughout the year. These all-day training sessions support individuals, like Skyler, Nick T, Nick G, Khanni to gain the public speaking skills and confidence needed to champion inclusion throughout the community.
$1,000
This giving level gives a student leader, Ambassador, the opportunity to attend the annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference, where he or she will learn to advocate for him or herself and the larger IDD community. There are more than 2500 participants, this includes the U.S and other countries from around the world, that attend this annual conference that is held at Indiana University This level of giving will support our local student leaders with and without IDD to attend this conference.
$500
The giving level supports our Citizen’s program through events. The Citizen’s program supports life after high school for our friends with disabilities As students age out of high school, the programs available to keep them connected with peers and their community essentially vanish. The Best Buddies Citizen’s program is critical to keeping our community members with and without disabilities connected.
$250
This funding level supports our local student leaders through ongoing local leadership trainings. Best Buddies chapters are student run chapters with an advisor in high schools, and Advisors for Middle and Elementary schools –supported by Best Buddies staff. There are 43 Chapters throughout Las Vegas, 17 high school chapters, and our newest chapter UNLV – these individualized trainings for the students ensure the success of the programs on each campus
2024 Champion of the Year
Jill Occhuito and Gabi Herd
We proudly celebrate Jill and Gabi as our 2024 Champions of the Year! Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to inclusion have made an incredible impact in our community. Jill and Gabi embody the true spirit of Best Buddies—building friendships, creating opportunities, and inspiring others to see the value and potential in every individual.
Through their leadership and advocacy, they have not only raised awareness but also brought people together to champion a more inclusive world. Tonight, we honor Jill and Gabi for their remarkable achievements and for showing us all what it means to lead with heart.
Candidates and Mission Partners
John Goldyn
Ethan Goldyn
Stephanie Olsen
Asher Barrow-Henderson
Paul Brooks, Sr.
Paul Brooks, Jr.
Justin Tietjen
Nick Giaquinto
Chessa Chrestensen
Skyler Chrestensen
Francine Drummond
Nikki Lee
Stacie Dragicevich
Gabi Herd
This Year's Entertainment-Michelle Derochers
Michelle Derochers has been an part of the Citizens Program for 15 years. She is an outstanding employee at Findlay Toyota, where her dedication and talent shine every day. Known for her incredible ability to sign songs, Michelle brings joy, connection, and inspiration to everyone around her. Her passion, skill, and commitment make her a true standout and a cherished member of the community. Register:
