It is really hard for me to put into words the experience I had this summer as a a Fellow with the Columbus Foundation and the impact that Best Buddies had on me. In the simplest of terms, I met some of the most inspiring people and had some of the most transformative experiences.

Catlin Layton, the State Directors of Best Buddies Ohio is one of the most driven people I have ever met, and has taught me how to go about identifying and and accomplishing your goals.
Abby Rampe, the Program Manager for Best Buddies Ohio has demonstrated the importance of effective communication and the variety of ways to engage a group of individuals.
Both of these lessons are ones that I will take moving forward in the nonprofit sector and really helped to strengthen my skill set in working in the development side of a nonprofit organization.

All of the Ambassadors that I met through the various trainings and Leadership Conference are some of the best people that I have ever met-their stories and personalities have showed me how important the programs at Best Buddies are and put into perspective how life-changing these programs are. For example, one Ambassador that I met has been involved with Best Buddies for multiple years and attributes so much of her self-confidence to the people and experiences she has had with Best Buddies. Also, I was able to see first-hand the way in which ambassador trainings help to inspire these individuals and give them the confidence to tell their stories, be leaders in their own life, and ultimately become advocates for Best Buddies in their communities.

All in all, I am beyond thankful for the experiences I had and people I met in the summer of 2019-its one that not only solidified the goals that I have for myself but defined the person and leader that I want to be.