At MAG, we believe in the power of unity and community and the importance of inclusivity which is why we are proud to support Best Buddies in VA and DC. Best Buddies is a remarkable organization that transforms lives and communities through its commitment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Best Buddies: A Mission of Inclusion
Best Buddies International is a dedicated nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization creating a global volunteer movement. Their mission is to provide opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with IDD.
This wonderful organization serves the IDD community, which includes people with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, Williams syndrome, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and other undiagnosed disabilities. Best Buddies is the world’s largest organization aimed at ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with IDD worldwide.
Embracing the Four Pillars of Best Buddies
Best Buddies’ programs are guided by four mission pillars:
- One-To-One Friendships: Building friendships between people with and without IDD, offering social mentoring while improving the quality of life and level of inclusion.
- Integrated Employment: Securing jobs for people with IDD, allowing them to earn an income, pay taxes, and support themselves independently.
- Leadership Development: Educating and empowering people with and without IDD to be leaders, public speakers, and advocates.
- Inclusive Living: Providing a vibrant, integrated living opportunity for people with and without IDD.
These pillars empower people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships, secure successful jobs, live independently, and improve their public speaking, self-advocacy, and communication skills.
Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Support, Sign Up or Donate
At MAG we are passionate about our mission to give back which is why we are excited to partner up for the 3rd year in a row in support of the Best Buddies Friendship Walk in DC on Saturday, April 27th, 2024. Join us for this unforgettable walk at Washington, DC’s iconic National Mall. This joyful event, gathering over 2,000 walkers annually, promotes inclusivity and friendship while supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Your participation can make a real difference. You can support, sign up to run, or donate here.
MAG and the Best Buddies Jobs Program
Mag is also proud to have firsthand experience with the impact of the Best Buddies Jobs program. This program, one of Best Buddies’ four mission pillars, secures jobs for people with IDD, allowing them to earn an income, pay taxes, and support themselves independently.
Beyond just providing employment, Best Buddies focuses on finding work that matches the job seeker’s interests and talents. MAG is beyond thrilled to have Erin Thompson, a recent graduate of the Best Buddies Job Program, as part of our team. We can confidently say that in this partnership, MAG is the real winner.
Join Us in Supporting Best Buddies Events
As we reflect on the invaluable work of Best Buddies, we invite you to join us in supporting their mission. By participating in Best Buddies events, donating, or simply spreading the word about this amazing organization, we can collectively create a more inclusive and compassionate world.
At MAG, we believe in the power of hope, compassion, and inspiration. We are proud to partner with Best Buddies and invite you to join us in making a difference. Let’s make every day a Best Buddies day.
