Number of Participants: 300
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $41,748
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Schools
School: Fox Lane High School
Date: May 2, 2026
Location:
Fox Lane High School
South Bedford Road, Bedford
NY
About:
The Best Buddies programs at Fox Lane High School continue to showcase the power of inclusion, friendship, and student leadership through meaningful partnerships between students, athletics, and the school community.
Throughout the year, student-athletes, Best Buddies members, families, and supporters have come together for a variety of events designed to create connections and foster a welcoming environment for all students. Best Buddies is an international organization focused on building one-to-one friendships, leadership development, and inclusive opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
At Fox Lane, the program is student-run, with student leaders helping organize inclusive community events that bring students together through shared experiences and school spirit. Student-athletes play an important role in many of these initiatives, helping strengthen relationships and create memorable opportunities for their peers.
The baseball program partnered with Best Buddies students for a fun and engaging wiffle ball game, while football players welcomed Best Buddies members onto the field as honorary captains and participants in the coin toss. Additional events such as Buddy Bowl and Buddy Hoops have further strengthened connections between students with and without disabilities through teamwork, encouragement, and friendship.
Fox Lane’s lacrosse program has also supported inclusion efforts through dedication games and awareness initiatives that help share the mission of Best Buddies and promote the importance of being inclusive partners both on and off the field.
The impact of these efforts has extended beyond the school community, with Fox Lane’s Best Buddies program even being featured by CBS New York for its work creating inclusive experiences for students.
Through advocacy, participation, and leadership, Fox Lane students continue to demonstrate how athletics and student-led initiatives can work together to build a more compassionate and inclusive school culture where every student feels valued, supported, and connected.
