At just 17 years old, Bianca Butler is already shaping a more inclusive world for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). A student at JSerra Catholic High School in Newport Beach, Bianca has turned a deeply personal connection into a movement of compassion, friendship, and leadership.
Inspired by her late uncle, whom she remembers as one of the kindest people she knew, Bianca founded her school’s first Best Buddies chapter—dedicated to fostering meaningful friendships between students with and without disabilities.
Her journey wasn’t always smooth. Early meetings had just a few attendees, and raising awareness around the club’s mission was a challenge. But Bianca didn’t give up. Through consistency and care, she created a community that’s now vibrant and growing—with events like collaborative art projects, holiday gift baskets, and social gatherings that make inclusion feel real.
Her work has not gone unnoticed. Bianca was named Best Buddies Champion of the Year in Orange County—the youngest person ever to receive the award. She was also honored as the Student Leader of the Year at the Best Buddies Friendship Walk.
Bianca’s impact goes beyond titles. Through Best Buddies, she’s learned to speak publicly, lead meetings, plan events, and advocate for students who often go unheard. Her growth has inspired others—including her younger sister, who is preparing to carry the mission forward next year.
Now, Bianca is expanding her vision even further. She’s planning to launch a virtual e-Buddies program, invite speakers from the IDD community, and encourage her school to explore on-campus employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.
When asked what she wants others to take away from her work, she says it simply:
“Just be kind and include everyone. You don’t know what someone’s going through. A little kindness can go a long way.”
🌱 Bottom Line
Inclusion is not just a goal—it’s a culture. Bianca’s story is a reminder that real change often begins with one person’s courage to care. At Hello, It’s Me, we celebrate young leaders like Bianca who are helping redefine what belonging looks like for the IDD community—one connection at a time.
