This month Best Buddies Wisconsin would like to recognize Nicolet High School. The chapter has certainly had an action packed, unforgettable year.
From Pairing Parties to Halloween Parties, and one very memorable Valentine’s Day celebration, the students have had many opportunities to bond through similar fun activities.
Senior President Julia Chelmowski is most proud of how the group’s Valentine’s Party turned out. The students got crafty decorating cookies, painting clay hearts and making Valentine’s Day cards.
They also played games with conversation hearts and searched for words like “cute” and “call me” in crossword puzzles and word searches. But the real party got started after all the cookies were eaten and the words found.
“Everyone had a great time and loved all the activities. Then, all of a sudden, a dance party broke out. Soon, we were all dancing around the room! It was a blast and a great way to end the party!” said Julia.
According to Julia, the chapter is made up of 22 Buddies, 20 Peer Buddies and 25 Associate Members. In addition to attending chapter events, Buddy pairs appreciate spending quality time with one another—sharing common interests and even trying new things.
“Our Buddy Pairs enjoy a variety of activities, including playing sports, watching movies, shopping, cooking, hiking, going out to eat, and attending Best Buddies events.”
Julia was involved with a similar organization to Best Buddies in Middle School. After learning about Best Buddies her sophomore year, she immediately filled out an application in anticipation of social change at her high school.
“I had noticed that in our high school, most of the students with disabilities were secluded and not accepted very well by other students. I thought this program would be a great way to bring everyone together and instead of focusing on our differences, we can focus on our similarities.”
Although Julia will no longer be a student at Nicolet next year, she would like to see the chapter continue to grow.
“Next year, I think it would be great if Nicolet's Best Buddies chapter becomes involved in more volunteer opportunities and holds more fundraisers.”
Julia is looking forward to finishing her senior year and participating in her chapter’s remaining events. After a scavenger hunt and bowling event, she will no longer be a member of Best Buddies at Nicolet High School, but the organization, as well as its message, will remain close to her heart.
“Friendship is about being there for someone during the good times and the bad times. It is also about accepting people for their good and bad qualities. I never would’ve expected that I would make so many amazing friendships through this program. It’s going to be very hard leaving for college next year, but I know I will keep in contact with all of them!”
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