Best Buddies Australia is a Not for Profit Organisation that works with young people and adults who have an intellectual disability.
We match a person who has an intellectual disability in a one to one friendship with a person who does not have a disability. We then ask the Buddy Pair to meet on a regular basis, engaging in regular daily activities that most of us take for granted. These activities include going to the movies together, sharing a cup of coffee or just hanging out and enjoying each other’s company.
Best Buddies provides recruitment, assessment, training, matching and support through our Program Managers.
Best Buddies provides two core programs.
Our High Schools Program is delivered in High Schools that have a support unit located on the same grounds, or close to a main stream school. We match a person from the Support Unit to an age related main stream peer.
Each Chapter is supported by a leadership team including a Chapter President, Vice President, Treasure, Secretary and Buddy Director.
Beyond their individual commitment, each Chapter is asked to organise 4 events per year (including supporting another community group)
Our Citizen’s Program is delivered to adults who have an intellectual disability. We match on general criteria including age, gender, likes and proximity. Buddy Pairs meet on a regular basis and contact each other every week.
Everyone involved in Best Buddies receives support and training as required.
