Best Buddies is a part of an international, non-profit organization where students are able to develop one-to-one friendships with students in the LFI and autism programs.

In the sixth year of existence at RHS and the 20th year of the organization overall, the program has grown to have 44 pairs of students participating at the school. Students in the program meet with their buddies at lunch during the week and once a month outside of school hours. During these times they play games, watch movies, work on projects or just sit down, talk and have lunch together. It is a chance for members to spend time with their buddies and catch up on things going on throughout the week.

Outside of school there are events such as a football game, a fundraiser, a holiday party and a gala at the end of the year. According to President senior Adrienne Lane, there are also more events being planned for the spring. Lane has been in the program for three years, an officer for two and now is leading the way for best buddies.

"I just love seeing all the buddies and the honesty and fun they bring to everything,” said Lane. “They are always enthusiastic and positive and that helps to make even my worst day better.” Along with Lane, senior Amy Ferro and sophomore Jake Sorrells are the two officers. This is Ferro’s third year in best buddies and Sorrells’ second.

Outside of RHS, Best Buddies has programs at jobs, colleges, middle schools, online and in the corporate and civic communities through a citizens program. To get paired up and to become a part of Best Buddies, it does not require special certification or experience. Best Buddies welcomes people with all backgrounds.

“Best Buddies has been a lot of fun for me and I highly recommend it to people who want to have a great experience next year,” said Ferro. For more information about joining Best Buddies, go to special education paraeducator Dawn Rundhammer in room 2010 or stop by on Wednesdays or Tuesdays during lunch to see what events are going on in the program.