Best Buddies in Illinois
Non-profit OrganizationsView the employees at
Best Buddies in Illinois-
Katherine Waks Nonprofit and Program Management | Advocate for Inclusion
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Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Rising Star
Eryn Smith Deputy Director, Programs at Best Buddies in Illinois-
Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Rising Star
Ryan LaCosse Area Director at Best Buddies in Illinois-
Peoria, Illinois, United States
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Top 10%
Abigail Gustafson Lead, Program Manager, Community Engagement-
Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Rising Star
Erika Sodergren Deputy Director, Operations at Best Buddies in Illinois-
Greater Chicago Area
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Rising Star
Overview
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, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 2,500 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ nine formal programs — Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, and Inclusive Living — engage participants in each of the 50 states and in 50 countries, positively impacting the lives of more than 1.2 million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships.
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