Best Buddies Club at UNR: Building Friendships and Fostering Inclusion
The University of Nevada, Reno’s Best Buddies club, led by students from the speech pathology and audiology program, is making significant strides in fostering inclusivity and creating one-to-one friendships among neurodiverse students and those with disabilities. With its roots firmly set in promoting community and campus inclusion, the club is proving to be a transformative force in shaping a more understanding and connected campus environment.
The Rise and Resurgence of Best Buddies
First launched in 2011, the Best Buddies program at the University of Nevada, Reno, has seen substantial growth, now boasting 63 members under the leadership of Taylor Hall, a third-year speech pathology and audiology student. Having experienced a temporary pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, the club was revitalized in 2024, thanks in part to the support of its faculty advisor, Jessica Stewart, Ph.D., CCC-SLP. Stewart emphasizes the critical role of friendship and inclusion, stating, “Friends are so important; I am honored to be a part of an organization and club that supports friendship and inclusion on campus and in our community.”
The club is officially associated with the Associated Students of the University of Nevada (ASUN) and provides various options for involvement, ranging from one-to-one friendship pairing to organizing events and fundraising. Meetings are held monthly, with the final gathering for 2025 scheduled for December 12th.
Empowering Neurodiverse Students
For Taylor Hall, the mission of Best Buddies is deeply personal. “In high school, I witnessed how separated neurodiverse students were in school and was disappointed,” Hall noted, underscoring the need for initiatives that promote respect and inclusivity. This sentiment resonates with many students who have firsthand experiences of the struggles faced by neurodiverse individuals in educational settings.
The club’s approach is focused on building unique friendships that not only break down barriers but also enrich the social and academic lives of those involved. It provides a platform where differences are celebrated and integrated into broader campus life, reflecting a commitment to community interest and local impact.
Extending Beyond University Grounds: Damonte Ranch High School
The values espoused by UNR’s Best Buddies have also taken root at Damonte Ranch High School in Northern Nevada. Established in November 2024 and led by senior student Bella Gongaware, the high school chapter has quickly grown to 20 members. Gongaware’s leadership is inspired by personal experiences, recounting how a close friend with a hidden disability faced bullying. “Today, she is doing great and has a bright future, but that situation helped me realize that I can also help other students with disabilities feel welcome, included, and on the path to success,” Gongaware explained.
Impact on the Local Community and Beyond
The resurgence of the Best Buddies club in Northern Nevada is not merely symbolic; it represents tangible progress toward addressing historical segregation of individuals with disabilities. By providing platforms for friendship and engagement, the club is dismantling social barriers, leading to a more intertwined and supportive community.
In a broader sense, the chapter’s efforts align with ongoing local initiatives aimed at enhancing inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities, integrating these values into the University’s framework. For residents of Northern Nevada, Best Buddies stands out as a testament to the power of grassroots involvement in fostering societal change.
Looking Ahead: Future Implications
As the Best Buddies program continues to expand, its potential implications for the broader community are noteworthy. The club’s success may inspire similar initiatives at other educational institutions within the region and could influence local policy on supporting neurodiverse populations. Moreover, as acceptance and understanding grow on campuses, the ripple effects could extend into professional environments, shaping a more inclusive future workforce.
However, as with any social initiative, measuring long-term success involves consistent community engagement and evaluation. The continued support from both university administration and local residents will be crucial in sustaining the momentum generated by Best Buddies.
Getting Involved
For those interested in supporting or participating in the Best Buddies program, opportunities abound. Students and community members can apply through the club’s online application or connect via social media platforms, such as Instagram, to stay updated on events and initiatives. By getting involved, individuals contribute to a legacy of inclusivity, friendship, and positive change.
Best Buddies at the University of Nevada, Reno, is more than just a club; it’s a movement that bridges gaps and fosters mutual respect, creating lasting impacts for all who participate. As it nurtures a culture of understanding, it not only enriches the lives of neurodiverse students but also strengthens the fabric of the entire campus community, embodying the ideals of Woke News through its commitment to local impact and community interest.
