The dictionary defines friendship as the “quality or condition of being friends.” At Best Buddies Wisconsin we understand that friendship means so much more.
Friends are the people you can rely on, share your hopes, dreams, and fears with, and most of all, a friend is someone you truly enjoy spending time with.
At chapter meetings, events and state outings, your smiles and laughter are a true testament to the real friendships that develop through Best Buddies programs.
Whether it’s going to sporting events, attending the Best Buddies Ball, sharing a meal, or just hanging out, it all starts with friendship. Friendships don’t just happen overnight. Friendships take work, but they’re worth it.
A good friend is someone who makes you a better person. They support your decisions. They’re there for you when you’re feeling down. They accept you for you. Sound familiar? And, what better example is there of friendship than a “Buddy Pair?”
Torrie Caufield has known her Buddy, Katie, since she was in the third grade. Over the years the girls have shared sleepovers and secrets. Through it all, they’ve found a way to keep their friendship strong. Today, as seniors at Homestead High School, the pair remain close as they share their special friendship with Best Buddies.
“Katie and I have gotten closer because of Best Buddies; I’ve gotten closer with her family too,” said Torrie. Torrie is the President of the Homestead High School chapter.
“All of the Buddies have so much fun at our meetings. They really enjoy the opportunity to do different things that they maybe wouldn’t normally get to do. Best Buddies is a great way to meet new people and try new things,” explained Torrie.
Torrie shared that she and Katie enjoy going out to eat at restaurants like Einstein Bagels and Panera Bread. The girls have also found that going out to eat or to the movies are fun ways to “catch up” and spend time outside of school.
“We try to do a lot of different things together,” said Torrie adding, “We like to play tennis too.”
Mara Hale and her Buddy, Isaac, also enjoy getting out and being active.
“We really enjoy going to movies and getting ice cream. We also like to play mini golf when it's nice out,” said Mara.
Mara is Homestead High School’s chapter Vice President. She joined the organization two years ago and has never looked back—insisting that she’s “loving every minute” of her Best Buddies experience.
“Isaac and I talk a lot and love spending time together. Issac and I are very close. We've become a lot closer throughout this year. He always cheers me up. Isaac is continuously happy and always wants to go out and do things, which I love.”
Both Mara and Torrie agreed that chapter meetings and events are gatherings everyone can look forward to. Meetings, like friendships, require time and planning, but the end result is always worth it.
“Our chapter enjoys going to Glaze to paint ceramics during the holiday season. Also, we have a ton of fun at our bowl-a-thon. We make sure every meeting is interesting and has a fun activity attached like bingo, card making, or taking buddy pictures,” said Mara.
Even though this is the last year for both students, they plan to remain close with their Buddies.
“We will definitely stay in touch. I still stay in touch with my Buddy who graduated last year,” said Mara.
“I know Katie and I will always be friends,” said Torrie, who shared that she plans to join Best Buddies in college.
True friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distances.
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