Best Buddies in NYS  - MS Chapter of the Year logo.

The RCS Middle School Best Buddies chapter was recently named Middle School Chapter of the Year for New York state! Each year, Best Buddies in New York celebrates one chapter at each level (elementary, middle, high school and college) that truly advances its mission of inclusion and creates an immediate impact in the community. The organization noted that the RCS Middle School chapter’s enthusiasm and optimism kept their chapter active during the most challenging year in Best Buddies in New York history.

“Throughout the two years I have worked as Program Manager in Albany, I have had the pleasure of visiting on a few occasions and each time the RCS students have welcomed me into their group without hesitation. Their chapter is home to one of the most creative and successful fundraisers in our region (annual Pins N’ Rims tournament) and they heroically assisted in making decorations for Albany’s 2019 Friendship Ball (all by hand),” said Best Buddies New York Program Manager Nina Benvenuto. “The goal of any Best Buddies chapter is to create an inclusive school culture for students as they shape their understanding of friendship. Without a doubt, the RCS Middle School chapter has achieved this goal. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with such amazing educators and I’m proud to cross paths with students who will go on to shape the future of our communities.”

According to its website, 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). For additional information, visit here