Best Buddies club builds friendships

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Julie Hernandez

Best Buddies are all smiles at their Thanksgiving party.

It’s a new year! That means new opportunities to try new clubs! The Best Buddies club wrapped up its year with a gift exchange and Christmas party in December and is anticipating new activities each month in the new year.

It is by far one of the most fulfilling organizations I have ever been a part of. The experience and friendships I have gained have made a lasting impact on me, and I am extremely thankful that I get to be a part of such an amazing club.

— Artemis Conaboy

Best Buddies offers a friendship and leadership program for students with intellectual disabilities.

“It is by far one of the most fulfilling organizations I have ever been a part of. The experience and friendships I have gained have made a lasting impact on me, and I am extremely thankful that I get to be a part of such an amazing club,” student leader Artemis Conaboy said when asked what she admires most about the club.

The club provides many friendships and many new opportunities. When you join a club like Best Buddies you are a part of a growing movement to help others and dedicate yourself to ensure everyone has a friend.

In everyone’s life, friendships are crucial. Friends provide you the ability to provide much-needed company as well as prevent isolation and loneliness. Your sense of purpose and belonging can be enhanced by friends, and this can improve your happiness.

With your participation, students with intellectual disabilities will develop close relationships with their classmates, and develop self-confidence and self-esteem.

Students can also interact and share their interests by engaging in activities they might enjoy.

The club is organized and managed by Mrs. Hernandez, a special education teacher at BPHS. She does a fantastic job making sure everyone is included and chooses activities that everyone always loves and will always remember.

The memories you gain throughout Best Buddies are something you can never experience anywhere else. It is truly the most heartwarming organization with amazing people. It is much welcomed that more people are aware of this club.