Kylie Halstead (top of picture) was a senior at Waukee Northwest High School and is planning to attend DMACC for 2 years and then plans to transfer to the University of Northern Iowa to complete her degree in Special Education.
Kylie has always had a strong passion for working with individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Before joining the chapter at Waukee Northwest Kylie was involved in an organization in the community that one of her buddies took part in. When they both found out they were in the same chapter they decided to try and buddy up, and the rest is history!

Max Bird (bottom of picture) just graduated from a 12 plus program and has also been part of the Best Buddies chapter for a while at Waukee Northwest High School. Max and Kylie have been paired together for 3 amazing years.

Throughout this year, Kylie and Max have created lifelong memories. One of Kylie’s favorite moments from Best Buddies was when the chapter had a get together, they were all going to watch a movie, but it did not work so they played hide and seek instead. Every year the chapter also does a talent show and Kylie asks Max if he wants to do it and what he wants to do, Max always wants to sing along with Kylie.

A milestone that Kylie has accomplished is becoming more confident in her ability to stand up for others. Kylie and Max have created true friendship through their time at Waukee Northwest, and they have helped people become more aware of what inclusion looks like at the school and in life and even introduced many members to the Best Buddies program.

Kylie’s message to the community is that everyone wants to be treated the same. “Even people with disabilities still understand and can make decisions. Just because there is a difference in their life doesn’t mean they should be treated differently.” Kylie shared.