Best Buddies

As part of its operations, “Merimna Paidiou Katerinis” has developed a collaboration with the Best Buddies program.

Best Buddies Greece is a non-profit organization that represents the international volunteer program of Best Buddies International.

Operating since 2011, its aim is to raise social awareness for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To achieve this goal, the program implements two main axes: one-on-one friendship and the development of self-representation.

Through the program, the right of people with disabilities to socialize and interact is supported, not only by providing the opportunity to develop friendships between two individuals but also by educating society about the importance of social acceptance. Friendship is a strong and natural way of socializing, and by creating one-on-one friendships, loneliness and isolation are eliminated, self-confidence is boosted, the quality of daily life improves, and social awareness and acceptance of vulnerable groups are strengthened.

The program involves meeting participants twice a month and having a weekly phone call for an academic year, as well as participating in group activities organized by the association throughout the year.

Through the development of self-representation, our goal is to educate and empower individuals with developmental difficulties so they can represent themselves, become public speakers, and ambassadors of the program. These individuals develop communication skills, greater self-esteem, trust in themselves, and acquire the ability to advocate for their rights.

A person with intellectual disabilities gains identity, not based on their difference, but due to their unique personality. The volunteer gains social awareness and actively contributes to the creation of a new reality—one where everyone enjoys equal rights.