Hi everyone!
My name is Sam Parcell and I am a junior at Elmhurst University, where I am studying Special Education and Art! This year, I am going to be the new President of Best Buddies at Elmhurst and could not be more excited! This will be my third year of involvement in Best Buddies and being nominated for Champion of the Year is an incredible honor!

Here is a bit about the mission of Best Buddies and why I am a part of this incredible organization!
Best Buddies 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)."

Personally, the mission of Best Buddies, along with my desire to spread inclusion in my everyday life, has made this organization a perfect fit for me. Far too often, I see children and young adults with IDD's left out of school clubs, activities and even friendships. Being a part of Best Buddies can help take a small step to change this and educate people on the importance of inclusion, kindness, and what it means to be a friend to all!

Through Best Buddies, thousands of people with disabilities have successfully moved from segregation and desolation to a new acceptance in their family and community. In turn, Best Buddies has created a new spirit of public service for thousands of middle school, high school and college volunteers that will last a lifetime.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little bit about me and the mission of Best Buddies! Your contribution means the world to me and the BB community! Your donation is helping to raise funds and awareness for Best Buddies, along with bringing one-to-one friendships to children and young adults with IDD's!

I thank you from the bottom of my heart!
In friendship,
Sam Parcell :)