If you’re looking to showcase your leadership skills, improve your communication, and make some friends along the way, Best Buddies is the club for you! Simply by signing up and attending events, you can create a huge difference in the lives of those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Ramsey High School.
Run by Mrs. Diakos, Best Buddies is an incredible opportunity for you to have a lasting impact and offer social mentoring through kindness and inclusion. You can build relationships and form meaningful connections with peers, all while engaging in fun activities planned by President Molly Morycz and Vice President Brooke Dallara, who have both taken an impressive step up as sophomores to run the club efficiently and effectively. After requesting their input, they had much to say about the club and what it is like to be involved, specifically in a leadership position.
First, I asked the girls why they were willing to take on such an important role so early on in their high school years. Molly described it as unexpected, but having spent so much time getting involved in Best Buddies and other unified sports, she was thrilled to lead the club and be a part of its growth. Brooke, however, admits that she expressed some worries, but being vice president has allowed her to make important decisions that shape how the club runs while helping her grow into the person she is today. Brooke also shared that her and Molly are friends outside of the club, and their strong communication and teamwork have been major contributors to their accomplishments. They have also received guidance from Mrs. Diakos which has helped them grow as leaders, a role that pushes them to try new things.
Next, I asked them what it is like to run a club like Best Buddies, as well as what they may get out of it personally. They both describe that it requires a lot of planning, communication, and coordination. However, they definitely seem to see the hard work as worth it. Molly explains how special it is to see everyone come together to celebrate differences and have fun at the events she helped organize. Brooke also claims that the club’s community and atmosphere make it stand out among others at the school, and despite its vast size it still feels close and tight-knit.
Finally, I asked why they would recommend the club to other students who may not have joined the club already. Both girls replied with the same idea, which was the friendships and opportunities it creates. The events help everyone bond and discover shared interests they might not have known about before.
Through their dedication and enthusiasm, Molly, Brooke, and the rest of the Best Buddies members are helping to build a more inclusive and compassionate community at Ramsey High School. Their efforts remind us that leadership isn’t just about organizing events, it’s about fostering understanding, creating friendships, and making sure everyone feels valued. Whether you’re looking to get involved, make a difference, or simply meet new people, Best Buddies offers an opportunity to grow while giving back. So don’t hesitate! Join in and be part of something that truly changes lives.