Laughs can be heard echoing through the cafeteria, as students decorate Halloween themed cookies, play games, and participate in the annual Halloween contest for the Best Buddies Club.

“This is my second year with Best Buddies, but I wish I would’ve started when I was a freshman, it’s really that fun,” said Lauren Hess, a Senior at Palatine High School and an officer of the club

“How do I describe it… Best Buddies, is a place where students from every walk of life come together, and something special happens. These bonds are created between people, and friendships you never expected are made.” Hess said.

Best Buddies was created as a way to pair students with special needs with a high school student partner, as a way of creating a connection between them. The club participates in monthly activities, and all encourages buddies to hang out with their students as well, and is run in schools throughout the state of Illinois and beyond.

Although registration is closed for this year, she encourages anyone who is considering it to sign up next year. “It’s real satisfying, just being able to make some of these kids smile, but to also be able to have a great time yourself,” she said.

It is a great way to get involved in the school, and appeals to every type of student. There is no necessary qualifications, only a good heart.

The October event featured a Halloween party, where buddies and peers alike were encouraged to dress up in their best costume.

The cafeteria was humming with activity, as kids played ice breaker games, decorated cookies, and enjoyed some Halloween themed bingo.

Prizes were awarded for costume designs, including spookiest costume, won by Nick Austin for his werewolf, and most creative, which was given to senior Brett Limberg, for his “candy rapper” idea.

“I think that Best Buddies has something for everyone, it’s a great group of people, very uplifting, and we have a lot of fun.” Limberg commented, when asked about the club.

When asked to describe the program in 3 words, Hess said, “Rewarding, accepting, and of course fun!”