On behalf of Best Buddies in Wisconsin, the Advisory Board, Young Professionals Board, Student Advisory Board, Champions and Volunteers, THANK YOU for joining us this evening
Tonight, we invite you to come alon of friendship, inclusion, and commu the Magic of Friendship” perfectly about Across Wisconsin, we’ve se connections between individuals w developmental disabilities can tran powerful reminder that together, we feels seen, feels heard, and feels v
This has been a remarkable year for Best Buddies Wisconsin. The Friendship Walk, Jobs program, Citzens and school-based programs have brought thousands of people together, creating spaces where friendships and kindness thrive
As we look ahead, we do so with gratitude and hope. Tonight isn’t just a celebration; it’s a call to action, an invitation to become engaged. Every story shared, every dollar raised, and every friendship formed helps us build a more inclusive Wisconsin Whether you’ve been part of this movement for years or are joining us for the first time, we invite you to continue this journey with us. Together, we can break down barriers, uplift voices, and create a future where everyone belongs. Thank you for being here and thank you for believing in the magic of Best Buddies
Caroline, Laura, Jaimee, Megan and Abbey
2024 Champion of the Year Jennifer Walkowiak
2024 Champion of the Year
Past Board Chair, Best Buddies Wisconsin
Vice President, CareSource
Jennifer Walkowiak was honored as the 2024 Champion of the Year by Best Buddies Wisconsin, raising more than $35,000 to support inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her leadership and passion continue to inspire a more inclusive community
As Past Board Chair of Best Buddies Wisconsin, Jennifer played a key role in expanding programs and fostering meaningful connections across the state Her strategic guidance helped strengthen the organization’s mission and impact. She is matched in the Citizens Program with her Buddy, Kris.
Professionally, Jennifer serves as Vice President of Sales and Community Engagement at CareSource, where she advocates for health equity and builds partnerships that serve vulnerable populations Her career reflects a deep commitment to improving lives through healthcare and social inclusion
2025 Van Handel Family Spirit of Inclusion Award
Recipient
This year, Best Buddies Wisconsin is proud to honor a true champion of inclusion and friendship, Bill Pasbrig
Bill Pasbrig
If you've ever joined us for a Friendship Walk, whether downtown at ManpowerGroup or out on the baseball field in Oconomowoc, you’ve seen him in action. He’s the one with the stop sign in hand, a smile on his face, and a knack for making even the most chaotic moments feel calm and fun
By day, Bill brings his expertise to CBRE But, when it comes to Best Buddies, he’s our go-to guy as our risk assessor, traffic director, parking guru, and early-morning tent wrangler. Rain or shine, 5 a.m. or midday, he’s there keeping our walkers safe, our volunteers organized, and our spirits high
What truly sets him apart isn’t just his dedication, it’s his heart He’s generous, kind, loyal, and always ready with a joke or a helping hand. And when he’s not helping us build a better event, you’ll find him casting a line and enjoying the peace of a good fishing spot
He’s not just a volunteer, he’s part of the Best Buddies family And this year, we’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible impact he has made
Best Buddies helps form meaningful friendships, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communications skills, all while feeling valued by society.
$5,000
• Opens a middle school, high school, or college Chapter for a year
• Covers the cost of the bus to Leadership Conference
$2,500
• Supports an All Chapter activity
$1,000
• A tent at the walk
• DJ or photo booth for a statewide Best Buddies event
$500
• Registration for a Buddy Ambassador or Student Leader to attend the Leadership Conference (registration and transportation)
$350
• Citizens/Ambassadors group activity
• The cost of buying t-shirts for Leadership Conference
$250
• The cost of a pizza party for a school chapter
Wisconsin All Stars
Best Buddies Wisconsin has some outstanding members! Here’s a few notable friends of inclusion that have made a difference.
Kiontis, Gallion | Global Ambassador
Kiontis is Best Buddies Wisconsin’s first Global Ambassador. When he’s not in the classroom teaching special education, he is out speaking about his experience as a person with autism to communities at Best Buddies events
The Oberneders |Community Leaders
The Oberneder sisters have made a huge impact in the Ozaukee County area. Eldest Lily and middle Caroline have both led successful school chapters at Homestead High School as Chapter Presidents over the years Their youngest sister, Emily, is a new member of the high school chapter!
Jacob Borkin | Jobs Participant
Jacob is an employee of the Palomino Pines Guest
Ranch During a typical shift, you can find Jacob working as a ranch hand caring for horses, maintaining pastures, learning new skills every day, and being a real “cowboy”! He gets to enjoy time with his very own horse, Bay Bay!
Supporting Health, Supporting Community
We are proud to expand our accessible health coverage to include Long Term Support Services.
Join us in supporting Best Buddies. Together, we can make a difference!
We
are proud to partner with Best Buddies.
Thank you for uniting and recognizing leaders in our local communities. Congratulations to all of the Champions’ collective impact and the Champion of the Year. You make a positive difference.
