Best Buddies Program

Best Buddies Program logo

The Best Buddies® program is a nation-wide program geared towards providing a safe and inclusive experience for students in the college by pairing students with an intellectual and developmental disability (Buddy) with neuro-typical students (Peer Buddy).

Why get involved in Best Buddies®?

  • Make new friends
  • Breakdown societal stereotypes
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Promote inclusion within Keyano College
Roles in the program
  • Buddy: a student with an intellectual and developmental disability
  • Peer Buddy: a student without an intellectual and developmental disability (neurotypical)
  • Chapter Leadership Team: students without an intellectual and developmental disability that are not paired
  • Chapter President – student recruited by staff member and/or previous Chapter President (if applicable) 
How to get involved
The purpose of this program is to support students with an intellectual and developmental disability by helping them navigate everyday social situations, from enjoying a lunch with friends to learning some life skills. 
The kinds of things you can do with your Buddy
  • Watch a movie
  • Play a game
  • Volunteer together
  • Watch a Huskies game
  • Eat lunch together
  • Attend an event together

To Apply

Email your interest to the Best Buddies program

How it works

Once you sign up, you'll be assessed and undergo a criminal record and reference check through a third party before being partnered with a Buddy here at the College.

The initial commitment we ask for is to meet up and check in with your Buddy once every two weeks as well attend three or four general events throughout the academic year where all chapter members are encouraged to participate. 

You and your Buddy will exchange contact information and start to meet up!