Best Buddies in Ohio

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families. While established as a national organization in 1989 the mission is much newer in NE Ohio and has enjoyed strong growth the last 5 years. I am the first Area Director for NE Ohio. Much of the information I am providing in this form is specific to the Cleveland office.