Wrapping up the Year: Reflecting on my Time as a Member of the YLC!

Image Description: Avelyn Garlish is smiling in her headshot. She has straight, shoulder-length blonde hair and is wearing an orange "YLC Crew" T-shirt that features a cheerful cartoon character and the slogan "Everybody Belongs.

As my term on the Young Leaders Council (YLC) comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on my experience and share some of my favorite memories from the past two years.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside such passionate, driven leaders. Every member of the YLC is deeply committed to the mission of inclusion, and that dedication is evident in each initiative and the collective impact of their efforts.

During my first term, I served as the initiative coordinator for the Student Advisory Board (SAB) initiative. In this role, I guided our cohort through a variety of projects and activities, which allowed me to explore and refine my leadership values while gaining valuable experience in data collection and survey analysis.

That year concluded with my first trip to the Best Buddies Leadership Conference (LC) in Indiana, where I stayed with fellow YLC members and had the opportunity to help lead sessions for chapters from around the world. Meeting my cohort members in person after collaborating online was a highlight, and I truly cherished the meaningful conversations and shared laughs with individuals equally passionate about the mission of inclusion. The experience broadened my perspective on the potential of Best Buddies and deepened my commitment to its cause.

In my second term, I served on the Blogs initiative. Over the course of the year, I authored three blogs and contributed to larger group projects. Writing has been a meaningful outlet to express my personal connection to Best Buddies and to highlight the wonderful moments my chapter, Longhorn Best Buddies, has celebrated. I also had the chance to share my future career aspirations and how they align with our mission.

Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the YLC members—both past and present. Your insight, encouragement, and leadership have played a significant role in my growth, and I am so grateful for the experiences we've shared.


In friendship,

Avelyn Garlish

YLC Member, Texas