09/29/2026
At our recent panel, Sarah Ufer of Best Buddies International took the mic and made one thing clear: inclusion works best when it’s built into everything we do.
Sarah, a recent Pacific University graduate who studied business administration with concentrations in marketing and management and a minor in disability studies, walked us through how Best Buddies carries out its mission of inclusion. That work spans one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living, all designed to open doors for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
She also shared two new programs we’re excited about:
Travel with a Purpose is an inclusive, staff-led travel program that brings people with and without disabilities together to explore the world, building independence, confidence, and lifelong friendships along the way.
Best Buddies Entrepreneurs launches as a pilot this fall. It’s a leadership development initiative for participants who already own a business or have a business idea they’re ready to grow.
The takeaway? Entrepreneurship and belonging go hand in hand, and our community is stronger when everyone has a seat at the table.
Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your passion and this important work with us.
More information about Best Buddies in bio!
