Starting a Best Buddies Chapter in your High School can be one of the most rewarding things you can do while still a student. However this takes a little determination, leadership and a belief that you can do it. Don’t forget that we’re right here to help you as much as you need.

The High Schools program pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with other high school students. By introducing Best Buddies into public and private high schools, we are crossing the invisible line that too often separates those with disabilities from those without.

We feel alone without friends and family, and in the past individuals with intellectual disabilities did not have the opportunity to have friends outside of their own special education classroom. Social experiences and relationships are a part of life; unfortunately, individuals with intellectual disabilities have historically been excluded from many of the social opportunities that most people enjoy.

When starting a High School Chapter the first thing you should do is speak with a teacher who you think will support and help you. Secondly, you should speak to your Principal as they are very important in getting things off the ground. After that, call Best Buddies Australia and we’ll help with the rest.

To assist, we recommend you use this check list:

• Find some like minded people to help. This could be your friends, classmates or teachers.
• Speak to the school Principal about their support. (We can help with this if you like.)
• Phone or email Best Buddies Australia to let us know that you’re interested.
• Best Buddies Australia will contact you and help you get started.

Best Buddies Australia will help with organizing people to be involved. We provide training to students, volunteers, teachers and parents. We help with fundraising, recruitment and organizing events. We also help with insurance, manuals and just about anything else you may need. If you have any questions, just give us a call.