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Many of the workers in the Boston College Supported Employment Program are matched with Boston College students as friends through the Boston College chapter of Best Buddies. Through Best Buddies, employees are provided with opportunities for one-to-one friendships with their non-disabled peers. Together, Buddies (Supported Employment Workers) and College Buddies (BC students) develop unique friendships and engage in both one-to-one outings and group events with the entire chapter.
Buddies and College Buddies make a commitment to each other as friends. They spend time together at least twice a month and talk on the phone during any week in which they do not meet in person. Since the Supported Employment Workers and students share a common campus environment, Buddy pairs will often meet for lunch in one of the BC dining halls or will see each other at the end of the day before the Buddy goes home.
The stated mission of the Boston College chapter of Best Buddies is to enhance the lives of people with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for one-to-one friendships with Boston College students. However, this program is equally important for the student members who might not otherwise have the chance to have such a special friendship. Best Buddies hopes that through the friendships that are fostered here, individuals with disabilities can see what an important part of our community they truly are. In addition, Best Buddies hopes that the Boston College community will recognize the distinct contributions that individuals with disabilities make to our university.
Boston College branch of Best Buddies
Best Buddies International
Some past Best Buddies events include:
Valentine's Day Party
Boston Celtics Game
Holiday Wreath Making Party
Sculpture Painting for BC Arts Festival
Bingo Party
