Best Buddies International

About Best Buddies International

Best Buddies Australia (BBA) is a unique and vibrant non-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disability by facilitating opportunities for one-to-one friendships with students and other members of the community.

People with intellectual disability frequently report that the opportunity to make friends is – more... something that is lacking in their lives. BBA provides these opportunities. BBA is seeking funding for five programs:


, Best Buddies High Schools
, Best Buddies TAFEs
, Best Buddies Universities
, Best Buddies Citizens and
, e-Buddies


Importantly, the model implemented in these BBA programs has been operating successfully in the United States and internationally for 15 years.

When was Best Buddies started?

Best Buddies was first established in 1989 in the United States by Anthony Kennedy Shriver. Since its inception Best Buddies has had an impact on the lives of more than 250,000 volunteers and people with intellectual disability around the world.

Why is the Best Buddies program important for people with intellectual disability?

BBA provides a life-changing experience for people with intellectual disability. As a result of the Best Buddies program people with intellectual disability have increased opportunities to participate in life in ways that other people take for granted. People with intellectual disability are given the chance to explore new friendships and widen their social circles. Opportunities to develop skills and confidence in speaking up and making choices are also an important part of the Best Buddies program.

How and where will the Best Buddies programs be operating?

All programs work by 'buddying up' people with an intellectual disability with a peer. These buddy pairs are supported by program staff to develop a friendship and do things together. Except for e-Buddies, the program will operate in educational institutions and the broader community across Australia. The e-Buddies program works by supporting people with intellectual disability to connect with an e-Buddy via email. – less – More from ZoomInfo »

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