Twenty years ago, the Arc realized students with disabilities were being excluded from much of the school experience. When asked what they would like to see changed, the overwhelming reply; “We want to be included.” The Arc responded by creating the Buddy Club. The Arc exists – to build bridges, to make connections and to help people with disabilities feel like they belong. The program has evolved and grown since those early days. Southridge and Hanford High Schools were the first two schools to embrace the concept. Today, every local high school is actively involved and the program has spread into many middle schools. Long time program manager Sue Pederson says; “I believe Buddy Club has changed the culture of our schools. Over the years, I have seen attitudes of students without disabilities go from tolerance of students with disabilities to openness, acceptance and real respect and inclusion.”

Students with disabilities now feel comfortable and look forward to attending their school’s dances, sporting events, and other school activities.

The Buddy Club has created an annual Talent Show where students with and without disabilities perform together.  The past year’s event included students from 6 high schools and 3 Middle Schools and was held on December 11th, 2019 at Chief Joe Middle School. The students shown are from Chiawana, Kamiakin, and Hanford High Schools.

Other recent Club activities include middle school students Buddy Bowling at Sparetime Lanes, The Monster Mash social held October 19th, 2019 at Richland High School, and Kamaikan students enjoying lunches together.