Auburn’s Greek community came together Tuesday, October 20th, for the annual Best Buddies Trick-or-Treat event, bringing together about 90 Auburn students and 40 buddies for an evening of Halloween fun.
Best Buddies pairs students with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build meaningful friendships and create opportunities for social connection. The organization hosts monthly events throughout the year, with its October celebration giving participants a chance to enjoy the Halloween season together.
Each of Auburn’s 18 Panhellenic sororities decorated a table outside its chapter room and provided candy for participants. Other Greek organizations, including the Interfraternity Council and the National Panhellenic Council, also participated by hosting tables.
The event followed a trunk-or-treat style format, with buddies walking alongside their student partners to collect candy. Many participants and their partners coordinated their Halloween costumes, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Anna Watson, a member of Best Buddies, attended with her friend, TJ, who looks forward to the celebration every year.
“Seeing firsthand the difference inclusion makes is so special,” Watson said. “My buddy, TJ, looks forward to this party every year and always has such a great time collecting as much chocolate as he can!”
Panhellenic helped organize the event by coordinating setup, candy and food, allowing organizations across Auburn’s Greek community to participate.
Watson said she was thankful for Auburn Greek Life and Panhellenic for hosting an event that brings people together.
“Seeing everyone’s faces light up throughout the night is such a joy,” Watson said. “I feel honored to have been part of such a wonderful event that brings our community together and celebrates inclusion.”
The annual celebration is one of the many ways Best Buddies builds connections between students and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through events like this, Auburn’s Greek organizations help create opportunities for friendship, community involvement, and a sense of belonging
