Overlake Best Buddies

Working Towards a Truly Inclusive World

Join us at Overlake Best Buddies and champion a world where everyone belongs and thrives. Get involved today!

200 million people

globally has IDD

1 in 6 children

has a developmental disability

6 vs. 125

average social circle for people with IDD vs. others.

Inclusive Opportunities Ahead

Two pairs of intercultural employees working in small groups by workplace

Interactive Inclusion Workshops

Engaging workshops that foster understanding and empathy among students, promoting a more inclusive school environment.

Parent and Guardian Resource Center

Are you a parent/guardian? Here are the tips, guidance, and resources to better understand IDD and help your children grow, learn, and feel supported every day.

More info

Dance Team Practicing In Spacious Studio

School-wide Awareness Campaigns

Organizes campaigns to raise awareness about inclusion and diversity, encouraging active participation from all students.

More info

Who Are We?

At Overlake Best Buddies, our mission is to champion inclusion and diversity in Bellevue's business community. Through student-led initiatives, we foster environments where everyone can thrive. Join us in creating a future where every voice is heard, and differences are celebrated as strengths in the workplace.

Resources For You

Young student with disability cooperating on project with college friends

Inclusion Workshops

Engage in interactive sessions that promote understanding and acceptance among all students.

A bright, contemporary office space with a diverse group of professionals working together.

Peer Mentorship Program

Pair up with a buddy to build friendships, boost confidence, and enhance social skills together.

A boy with Down syndrome and a girl in a wheelchair share a joyful moment in a vibrant outdoor setting, demonstrating friendship and inclusion.

Community Outreach Events

Participate in events designed to foster community engagement and spread awareness about inclusion.

Disabled manager offering a handshake with his team at back in office

Parent and Guardian Resource Center

Are you a parent/guardian? Here are the tips, guidance, and resources to better understand IDD and help your children grow, learn, and feel supported every day.

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Overlake Best Buddies has transformed our community by fostering genuine inclusivity. The student-led initiatives empower everyone to connect and grow together. It's inspiring to see such dedication to making a difference in Bellevue. Truly a wonderful organization!

- Emily Chen

Overlake Best Buddies excels in promoting friendship and acceptance. This student-led organization in Bellevue is a beacon of hope, creating lasting bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. Their commitment to inclusion is truly commendable and uplifting.

- Jason Lee

Overlake Best Buddies has enhanced the spirit of inclusion in Bellevue. Their student-led efforts inspire unity and friendship, creating a warm environment for everyone. Witnessing their impact is incredible, and their dedication to inclusivity sets a positive example for all.

- Samantha Tran

Overlake Best Buddies has transformed our community by fostering genuine inclusivity. The student-led initiatives empower everyone to connect and grow together. It's inspiring to see such dedication to making a difference in Bellevue. Truly a wonderful organization!

- Emily Chen

Overlake Best Buddies excels in promoting friendship and acceptance. This student-led organization in Bellevue is a beacon of hope, creating lasting bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. Their commitment to inclusion is truly commendable and uplifting.

- Jason Lee

Overlake Best Buddies has enhanced the spirit of inclusion in Bellevue. Their student-led efforts inspire unity and friendship, creating a warm environment for everyone. Witnessing their impact is incredible, and their dedication to inclusivity sets a positive example for all.

- Samantha Tran

Overlake Best Buddies has transformed our community by fostering genuine inclusivity. The student-led initiatives empower everyone to connect and grow together. It's inspiring to see such dedication to making a difference in Bellevue. Truly a wonderful organization!

- Emily Chen

Overlake Best Buddies excels in promoting friendship and acceptance. This student-led organization in Bellevue is a beacon of hope, creating lasting bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. Their commitment to inclusion is truly commendable and uplifting.

- Jason Lee

Overlake Best Buddies has enhanced the spirit of inclusion in Bellevue. Their student-led efforts inspire unity and friendship, creating a warm environment for everyone. Witnessing their impact is incredible, and their dedication to inclusivity sets a positive example for all.

- Samantha Tran

Championing Inclusion at Overlake

Overlake Best Buddies is a student-led organization based in Bellevue, committed to fostering inclusion and acceptance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, leadership development, and integrated employment. We believe in the power of community to break down barriers and build a more inclusive world where everyone feels valued and embraced. Join us in making a difference and spreading friendship across our school and beyond.

Inclusive Education Packages

Young Student with Disability in College Library

Basic Inclusion Support

Free

per student

Access to essential resources and support to promote cultural and social inclusion among students.

Resource access

Peer support

Community events

Popular

Enhanced Engagement Program

$199

per semester

Includes all features from the Basic tier plus workshops and personalized guidance to enhance inclusive experiences.

Workshops

Guidance sessions

Expert seminars

Inclusive, talking and business people in a morning meeting for collaboration, planning or discussion. Happy, diversity and a black man with a disability working at a company with emplyees speaking

Comprehensive Inclusion Plan

$399

per semester

Includes all features from previous tiers plus tailored mentorship and advanced resources for creating inclusive environments.

Mentorship

Advanced resources

Leadership training

FAQs for Our Students

What is Overlake Best Buddies?

Overlake Best Buddies is a student-led organization in Bellevue focusing on promoting inclusion and friendship for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

How can I join Overlake Best Buddies?

To join Overlake Best Buddies, visit our website to fill out an application form or attend one of our scheduled meetings.

What activities does Overlake Best Buddies organize?

We organize social events, educational workshops, and community service projects to foster inclusion and develop leadership skills among participants.

Who can participate in Overlake Best Buddies programs?

Students of all abilities are welcome to participate in our programs, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can build meaningful friendships.

How often does Overlake Best Buddies meet?

Overlake Best Buddies typically meets bi-weekly to plan events, discuss initiatives, and conduct workshops for members in Bellevue.

Join Our Inclusive Community

Connect with peers at Overlake Best Buddies where everyone belongs. Be part of our mission to promote friendship and inclusion in Bellevue.