Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Estero raises money for inclusion programs

ESTERO, Fla. (WINK) — More than 200 people gathered at Estero Community Park Saturday to celebrate friendship and inclusion for Best Buddies Southwest Florida's annual Friendship Walk. 



Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization that creates one-to-one friendships as well as employment and leadership development opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.



The friendship program helps break through social barriers and fosters relationships between individuals with and without disabilities. The Best Buddies culture continues in the classroom, with many local schools creating their own chapter.



WINK News anchor Taylor Petras emceed the walk for the fourth consecutive year. 

This year, Riverdale High School was the top fundraising school.

The money raised from the 2026 Friendship Walk will go toward continuing Best Buddies programs in southwest Florida.

Their goal was to raise $32,000. 

Click here to donate.