Hoboken High And Hoboken Middle School Best Buddies Chapters Host First Annual 'Magical Holiday Event'

HOBOKEN, NJ — The Hoboken High School and Hoboken Middle School Best Buddies chapters, in partnership with the Heart of Hoboken, came together to host their inaugural "A Magical Holiday Event" on Wednesday, December 18th. The festive celebration was an inclusive event aimed at spreading joy and bringing the community together, especially for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The event featured a wide array of fun-filled activities, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. Highlights included:

The event was made possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of Best Buddies Advisors Kristen Beriloff (Hoboken MS) and Symone Braxton (Hoboken HS), Heart of Hoboken Advisors Carrie Ellis, and Heart of Hoboken Founders and Presidents Nicholas Petruzelli and Jordan Gertz. It was supported by volunteers from the Heart of Hoboken, HS and MS Best Buddies, and National Junior Honor Society at Hoboken MS, all of whom played a crucial role in bringing this magical experience to life.

"This event was a beautiful example of inclusion, bringing together students, families, and the entire Hoboken community to spread holiday cheer," said Robin Piccapietra, Principal at Hoboken HS. "Our Best Buddies students, volunteers, and community partners made it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved."

The "Magical Holiday Event" is part of the ongoing efforts by the Best Buddies program and Heart of Hoboken to create inclusive opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to foster a spirit of collaboration and kindness across Hoboken.

For more information about the Best Buddies chapters at Hoboken HS and Hoboken MS, or to get involved in future events, please contact:

Kristen Beriloff, Best Buddies Advisor, Hoboken Middle School
Symone Braxton, Best Buddies Advisor, Hoboken High School

Carrie Ellis, Heart of Hoboken Advisor
carrie.ellis@hoboken.k12.nj.us

About Best Buddies

Best Buddies is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through a variety of inclusive programs. The mission of Best Buddies is to foster one-to-one friendships, integrated employment opportunities, leadership development, and inclusive living environments for people with IDD.opportunities, leadership development, and

About Heart of Hoboken

Heart of Hoboken is a vibrant and community-driven club at Hoboken HS dedicated to fostering social good, inclusivity, and connection throughout the city of Hoboken, New Jersey. Established with the mission to bring people together, Heart of Hoboken strives to create a welcoming environment for all students by supporting local initiatives, promoting volunteerism, and organizing events that benefit the school and Hoboken community at large.

About Hoboken Middle School

Hoboken Middle School (Hoboken MS) is a dynamic and inclusive educational institution serving students in grades 6 through 8. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, Hoboken MS provides a comprehensive and well-rounded education that focuses on academic excellence, personal growth, and community involvement. The school strives to create an engaging learning environment that supports the development of students' intellectual, social, and emotional skills.

About Hoboken High School

Hoboken High School (Hoboken HS) is a vibrant and diverse public high school located in Hoboken, New Jersey. Serving students in grades 9 through 12, Hoboken High School is committed to providing an inclusive, well-rounded education that prepares students for academic, social, and personal success. With a strong emphasis on both academic achievement and extracurricular involvement, Hoboken HS is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and challenging environment for all students.