Virginia Banton began serving as a volunteer for the Best Buddies Club in her junior year. She welcomed the opportunity to assist this international organization, which is dedicated to supporting the needs of students with intellectual and developmental challenges. Her goal is to help the buddies to become active participants in the world we all share. Virginia’s enthusiasm and skills in relationship-building led her to be elected president of the South Lakes Best Buddies club. As President, Virginia has worked to foster supportive relationships for students to thrive and learn together, and to eliminate the bullying that often confronts this community.

The Best Buddies activities take place during the school day. Participating students are paired with volunteers to socialize and to work on projects together. Volunteers can join at any time, and many are recruited at the club festival which is held every fall. Currently there are about 30 volunteers and about 20 buddies who meet together. Supplies for their various activities are donated by Virginia and the other members of the Club.

Virginia has also been active in gymnastics for fourteen years and cheerleading for four.  She says the skills she has developed in leadership, problem-solving, and coordinating the efforts of others in gymnastics and cheerleading have assisted her work with Best Buddies.

Virginia feels that the existence and visibility of the Best Buddies Club help the general student population be more open, and possibly even friendlier. She is optimistic about the future of the Club, noting that there are many dedicated students who will be excellent leaders in the years to come.