Lorain County JVS

Victoria Santiago, Project Life 101 instructor and Best Buddies advisor at Lorain County JVS has been recognized as the 2024 Chapter Advisor of the Year by Best Buddies in Ohio.

Recognizing Outstanding Leadership

Each year, Best Buddies in Ohio honors individuals who exemplify leadership and inclusion within their school communities through their Chapter Awards. Santiago was selected for her exceptional dedication to the mission of Best Buddies and her impact on the lives of students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Santiago launched the LCJVS Best Buddies Friendship Chapter in the fall of 2023, alongside co-advisor Sue Pohorence. In just the first year, the chapter created eight one-to-one friendship matches and hosted monthly activities that brought students together in meaningful and inclusive ways.

Celebrating Friendship Through Memorable Events
“Our Best Buddies students have had such a great year building connections and having fun together,” said Santiago. “Some of my favorite moments include the Best Buddies Friendship Walk at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, where we raised over $1,000 for the organization. We also hosted a St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser selling shamrock shakes and cookies, raising more than $400!”

“We celebrated Valentine’s Day with a bowling trip full of laughter and friendship, decorated cookies and played games at our winter holiday party and held a special BuddiesGiving meal where everyone made a dish to share. One student told me, ‘It feels like we have a Thanksgiving family, just here at school.’ Moments like that are what this program is all about.”

A Culture for all at LCJVS
“Victoria’s passion, creativity, and commitment to student success have made such a powerful impact on the students at the LCJVS,” said  Michelle McClintic, LCJVS supervisor. “She’s built something truly special, and I’m grateful for the leadership and guidance she brings to this program.”

According to Best Buddies in Ohio, leadership is a core element of its mission, and Santiago has demonstrated this through her ongoing advocacy, thoughtful programming, and ability to create a supportive environment for all students.

“We are so grateful for advisors like Victoria who continue advocating for students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities,” the organization said in its announcement.

About Best Buddies International
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The organization builds inclusive communities through one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living opportunities.