Southington HS Senior A Finalist For Major Community Service Honor, Plans Local Fundraiser

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Southington High School senior Desmond Conway has been selected as one of eight candidates for the 2026 Best Buddies in Connecticut Champion of the Year campaign, which raises money and awareness for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Conway is the only candidate from central Connecticut this year and has served as Buddy Director of the Southington High School Best Buddies chapter since 2024.

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As a Champion candidate, Conway will raise money and awareness for Best Buddies programs while promoting the organization's goals of friendship, leadership, acceptance, and opportunity.

"Desmond embodies the Best Buddies mission through his commitment to inclusion, friendship, and creating a welcoming community for everyone," Best Buddies in Connecticut State Director Lezlye Zupkus said.

"As the Buddy Director of the Southington High School Best Buddies chapter, Desmond is a positive role model whose kindness, enthusiasm, and dedication inspire those around him, making him truly deserving of being nominated as a Champion of the Year."

Conway entered the Southington school system through its Preschool Integrated Program in 2012 and has received special education services and support throughout his time in the district.

He joined Best Buddies in 2023 and, in addition to his leadership at Southington High School, has participated in the organization's Transition Academy, Friendship Ball and Friendship Walk.

"Best Buddies has made a difference for me because I've learned that individuals with IDD don't have to feel alone," Conway said. "They can enjoy the same things as everyone else, including friendships, jobs and activities."

Conway said he hopes his experience as a person with an intellectual or developmental disability can encourage others to build more inclusive schools, workplaces and communities.

Southington Fundraiser Planned

Conway's campaign will include a local fundraiser Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jersey Mike's, 812 Queen St. in Southington.

Twenty percent of sales from participating supporters will be donated to Team Desmond's campaign.

Conway is expected to attend the event to meet supporters and discuss the Best Buddies mission.

Prints of his original culinary illustrations will also be available for purchase.

His campaign is additionally seeking sponsorships, advertisements, silent auction donations, and ticket purchases for the Champion of the Year celebration.

The campaign will conclude Friday, Oct. 2, at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, where Best Buddies in Connecticut will recognize the candidates and their fundraising and advocacy efforts.

Best Buddies was founded in 1989 and works to create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Its Connecticut organization was established in 1990.

For more information on the 'Best Buddies' program, click on this link.