03/11/2026
After a lot of thoughtful reflection, I have decided to step down from my role as President of the Washington Citizens Chapter, effective April 1, 2026.
I opened this chapter as a parent seeking community, inclusion and support for adults and families. Serving in this role has truly been an honor and a deeply meaningful season of my life. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together — a community rooted in connection, inclusion, and showing up for one another in real and tangible ways. Our partnership with Best Buddies has always reflected the heart of this chapter: belonging, visibility, friendship, and advocacy.
My greatest hope is that the beautiful friendships and relationships formed through this group continue to grow and thrive.
As part of this transition, they will be renaming the chapter from Washington Citizens to the Central Illinois Adult Friendship Chapter. This change reflects broader reach and goals of continuing to build inclusive, one-to-one friendships for adults throughout the Central Illinois area.
Best buddies is currently exploring a few potential advisors who can help lead and support the chapter moving forward in later May.
In the meantime, please know:
• If you are already matched in a one-to-one friendship, your match will continue as normal. There is no change to your existing friendship.
Stay tuned for more details pertaining to events, transition and notifications from Best Buddies Illinois.
My family will remain deeply committed to Best Buddies and Barbell Buddies. We will continue to stay involved with our lifting team, support this Chapter, and show up in our community in ways that feel aligned moving forward.
This chapter and the people in it mean so much to our family. Thank you for the trust, support, and friendships that have made this journey so special.
Thank you,
Christina Schatsiek
