MCC Buddies

Buddies header

I want to volunteer ⇒

Navigating your college social life is tricky under the best of circumstances, but it can be especially difficult for students with intellectual disabilities. The MCC Buddies program partners MCC student volunteers with Special Education District of McHenry County (SEDOM) students. You and your Buddy can attend MCC group activities and social events together. Make a difference by sharing your time and including your Buddy in the types of social opportunities that most students enjoy.

Make a one or two semester commitment to the friendship and maintain weekly communication by phone, email or face-to-face meetings with your buddy.

How to become a Student Volunteer:

  1. Submit your application
    Complete the application. Return two completed reference forms in sealed envelopes to Emily Smith, Coordinator of Service Learning and Volunteerism in A250.

  2. Interview with SEDOM Staff
    SEDOM staff will interview you to screen your eligibility to participate and to assist in the matching process. During the interview, they will provide an overview of expectations and disability-related information as it pertains to the MCC Buddy Program. After the application and interview process, SEDOM staff will select a suitable Buddy for you based on gender, interests, and age.

  3. Meet your Buddy
    You and your Buddy will have an introduction meeting to become acquainted with each other and determine if you feel compatible with each other.  If the meeting goes well, then an MCC Buddies friendship is made.  If not, SEDOM Staff will find someone else to match with you. 

  4. Get to know your Buddy
    How the friendship develops is up to you and your Buddy. Meetings and activities between you and your Buddy should take place on the MCC campus.  Communication outside the MCC campus is up to the discretion of the participants.            

  5. Follow up with SEDOM Staff
    SEDOM staff will be available for a monthly meeting to address any concerns or questions.  Additional assistance will be available on a one-to-one basis as needed.

Contact Us

For additional information, contact Emily Smith, Coordinator of Service Learning and Volunteerism (815) 455-8536.