Best Buddies Aspen Celebrates Connection

Best Buddies Aspen returns to the St. Regis Aspen Resort on July 2 for its Champion of the Year Gala—an uplifting evening dedicated to connection, community and creating a more inclusive world for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Photography Courtesy of Best Buddies Aspen

Each summer, Best Buddies brings together the Aspen community in support of inclusion through the Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala at the St. Regis Aspen Resort on July 2.

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit organization committed to creating opportunities for friendship, employment, leadership development, inclusive living and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Through its global programs, Best Buddies works to end the social, physical and economic isolation experienced by millions of people with IDD by building meaningful, one-on-one relationships and fostering communities where everyone belongs.

At the center of the evening is the Champion of the Year campaign, a competitive fundraising effort that unites business and community leaders in a shared mission to advance inclusion. Throughout the campaign, Champions partner with individuals with and without IDD to raise funds and awareness, rallying their networks in support of Best Buddies’ mission. The Champion who raises the most funds is named Champion of the Year, recognizing not only individual achievement but the collective power of community-driven philanthropy.

The Aspen Gala serves as the culminating celebration of this campaign, honoring a select group of Champions from across the region. Guests will gather for a signature evening at the St. Regis Aspen Resort featuring a gourmet dinner, lively entertainment and a premier silent and live auction showcasing exclusive experiences and items.

More than a celebration, the evening reflects the spirit of “partying with a purpose,” as funds raised directly support Best Buddies programs that foster friendship, create pathways to employment and build more inclusive communities across Colorado and beyond. In Aspen, that mission comes to life through connection, celebration and a shared belief in the power of inclusion.

Learn more or purchase your tickets at aspengala.com.

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