Thank you! You’re making a difference.
Alana Lorts, Sr. Program Manager, SW Ohio
Shannon Wilson, Sr. Program Manager, Central Ohio
Lily Harrison, Programs & Ops, Statewide
Mallory DeTota, Area Director, Central Ohio
Catlin Skufca, State Director
Margaret Cook, Sr. Program Manager, Northern Ohio
Casey Goldman-Davis, Area Director, SW Ohio
Dear Friends,
All of us at Best Buddies in Ohio extend our deepest appreciation to our wonderful participants, families, volunteers, donors, and corporate partners for such a successful 2024! Your support and dedication to our mission help our programs grow, creating more inclusive communities throughout our state.
Happy Holidays to you and yours, and here’s to continued growth in 2025!
In Friendship, Catlin Skufca State Director
Here is what we’ve accomplished, because of your support in 2024
Izzy & Sophie
Eric & Ryan
36 Cities | 21 Counties
59
Total Chapters 7 Middle Schools 29 High Schools 13 Colleges 156 Citizens Participants 127 e-Buddies
2,084 Total Participants
20,840 Impacted
One-to-one
Ryan & Jordan
“
Jordan is kind of like the brother I never had. We have really opened up to each other. Having a best buddy is the absolute greatest thing”
-Ryan
122
Ambassadors Participants trained in 2024
195 Promoters Participants
Leadership Development
“
I love Best Buddies because it allows me to build leadership skills, build relationships with people, and have fun while representing an amazing organization."
-Alex
Connects families who are expecting or have a young child with IDD to experienced parents of a child with IDD, encouraging a genuine relationship rooted in mentorship, resourcesharing, and guidance.
“
A program like Eunie’s Buddies can be a lifeline for parents of children with IDD, offering a space to be vulnerable and connect with another parent who truly understands and welcomes you with open arms.”
-Camille
An unforgettable evening with 200 of our closest friends from SW Ohio gathered at Hanover Reserve Weddings & Events for music, dancing, and friendship! In addition to completely covering the costs of this event, Hanover Reserve raised $10,000 for Best Buddies in Ohio!
In July, leaders from all over Ohio, both with and without IDD, attended our 33rd Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference. They participated in personalized trainings that develop the skills needed to organize and lead a Best Buddies chapter!
$140,000
More than 1,300 participants, corporate partners, and community members walked for inclusion across Ohio! Raised
Raised $289,000
Nearly 400 supporters came together for our annual Galas to celebrate the collective efforts of our 15 Champions who raised funds and awareness to support our mission!
