Students at Bay Trail Middle School involved in Best Buddies raised $265 in support of individuals with disabilities during their Bean Buddies event.

Through the fundraiser, students involved in Best Buddies create a boutique coffee shop, selling hot and iced coffees, hot teas, and hot cocoa to the school community.  These budding baristas prepared the beverages with all the fixings, including flavored cold foam, whipped cream, and more. The students also sold handmade bookmarks.

“What a great turn-out for our annual Bean Buddies,” said Katie Lostumbo, who serves as an advisor to Best Buddies alongside Michelle Landon-Bowen. “Our students had a great time making coffee for our amazing staff members!

Best Buddies, which has student chapters at Bay Trail and Penfield High School, creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, leadership development, and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). A global nonprofit, its programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.