2025 VA/DC Homecoming: Two Parties One Purpose Gala

Friday, October 24, 2025

Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center

Program for the Adult Party:
6:00pm - 7:00pm
VIP Reception

6:00pm - 8:00pm
Chefs Tastings & Silent Auction Open

7:45pm
Program Begins

9:00pm-10:00pm
Dance floor opens to our adults in the Atrium

Homecoming: Two Parties One Purpose is celebrating 20 years of our Virginia and DC Best Buddies office. These two incredible parties come together for one goal - moving our Best Buddies mission forward into the next 20 years! Join us as we honor two decades of building friendships, creating jobs, developing leaders, and fostering inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, and community! Adult guests (21+) will savor incredible creations from local chefs teamed up with their Best Buddies sous chefs, alongside delicious cocktails and beverages. Enjoy exploring our silent auction filled with fantastic items from our local community and beyond.

During our program, you'll have the chance to hear from our Best Buddies Ambassadors and Champions, big on incredible live auction items, and raise your paddle in the name of inclusion. We'll then present the Diane Ray Brown Lifetime of Friendship Award, honoring an individual who has made a lasting impact on the disability community through their unwavering commitment to inclusion, friendship, and advocacy. This award celebrates a legacy of compassion and leadership, and we look forward to recognizing this year's inspiring honoree during the evening's program.

We'll also honor our remarkable Champion of the Year candidates-advocates working to build friendships, jobs, leadership opportunities, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The evening concludes with the big moment: announcing our Champion of the Year for Virginia & DC.

Whether you're a longtime supporter or new to our mission, you're invited to celebrate inclusion with us. Multiple ticket levels are available. If you are a Best Buddies participant or need financial assistance to attend, please reach out to [email protected].

*Our student dance will run from 6pm-10pm in the Atrium