La Verne Buddies is an organization on campus dedicated to both connecting and supporting students with and without disabilities through friendship, and creating a more inclusive environment to end the isolation that many students face while on campus.
The organization hosts multiple events throughout the year including movie nights with free giveaways, therapy dogs, and brings awareness to months that highlight autism awareness and diabetes awareness.
Secretary of the La Verne Buddies, Kiara Ortiz, sophomore criminology major, said being a part of this organization has helped her both within and outside of school, and hopes to make that impact on those who are interested in joining in future semesters.
“La Verne Buddies was there for me to not feel alone when I went on campus for the first time,” Ortiz said. “It also helped me become more open to the idea of helping out people, especially students on campus.”
They also feature added services to help students on campus by referring them to the accessibility services department, which helps students with medical, physical, psychological or learning challenges.
“For those interested in joining (La Verne Buddies), I would love to show them what our club has to offer and invite them to our events so they can learn more,” Ortiz said.
For more information visit linktr.ee/lavernebuddies_.
—Isabel Amezquita
Isabel Amezquita, a senior English major and communications minor, is a staff writer for the Campus Times.
