For 13-year-old Noah Abbott, the journey to becoming a Best Buddies Champion of the Year nominee was about more than just the title. The young advocate from Hawesville remains grateful and motivated after participating in the prestigious competition, which recognizes individuals dedicated to supporting people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
Noah was the youngest nominee in this year’s Kentucky chapter competition and the only nominee with an IDD. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sensory Processing Disorder at the age of 3, he has not only defied early expectations but has become a leading voice for inclusion and acceptance in his community.
“Even though I didn’t win, I’m still so proud of what I accomplished,” Noah said. “I got to share my story with so many people, and that means more to me than any award.”
Best Buddies is an international nonprofit that provides free programs fostering friendships, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with IDD.
Abbott’s advocacy caught the attention of the organization after he spoke to a 4th-grade class about life on the spectrum, and he quickly became an ambassador. He has since traveled to schools and support groups, sharing his personal experiences and encouraging others to see the world through his eyes.
Noah’s mother Tiffany said it was tough for the family when he was diagnosed at 3 years old.
“We were told that Noah would never speak and that we should keep our expectations low. Then someone called me and said, ‘Tiffany, Noah is the same little boy today that he was before you got that diagnosis.’ It was like a switch had been flipped,” Tiffany said. “I started looking up videos of therapy sessions, reading case studies, and anything else I could get my hands on and started helping him the best way I knew how by myself. As a family, we had to make a lot of changes and learn to see and feel the world the way he does, and we are better people because of it.”
Noah got involved with Best Buddies after a family friend shared his website on social media and encouraged people to watch a video of him presenting to a 4th-grade class. A representative from Best Buddies saw it and got in contact with the Abbotts.
“Noah loved the organization and their mission and wanted to be a part of it,” Tiffany said. “Noah loves what he does, but he never understands why people make such a fuss over him. He always says, ‘I’m just talking. It’s not that big a deal.’”
Noah’s presentation style blends honesty and humor, making his message both relatable and impactful. He customizes each talk for his audience, whether he’s speaking to school groups, educators, or parents. His goal is always to break down misconceptions and foster a greater sense of understanding.
“I’ve read several books on public speaking and that’s important,” he said. “When I speak at parent support groups, I tell them about how my mom and dad were told I would never speak and some of the things that have helped me in my life. Recently, I did a team building for an entire preschool staff. I brought games and had activities that kinda put them in my shoes. I always try to be a little funny. I like to make people laugh.”
Tiffany said Noah’s personal experiences make him a perfect advocate.
“Who better to talk about the importance of inclusion than a kid that often feels excluded? I think when people hear his thoughts coming directly from him, they get a better understanding of how similar he is to them and that the differences are few,” she said.
Noah said he enjoys every bit of sharing his message with a variety of people.
“After years of going to therapy to learn how to act in the world around me, I love teaching people how to just accept me for me,” he said.
While the Best Buddies Gala and the Champion of the Year competition have come to an end, Noah’s advocacy work is far from over. His ambition is to continue raising awareness for Best Buddies and to grow his role as a spokesperson for inclusion. He dreams of traveling the world, spreading his message, and inspiring others to embrace diversity.
Noah’s nomination and journey through the competition have only strengthened his resolve to make a difference. His family continues to seek support for Noah’s ongoing mission, encouraging the community to learn more about Best Buddies and consider contributing to the cause.
“I just want to thank the people who have supported Noah and allowed him to talk to them about Best Buddies and this opportunity,” Tiffany said. “In such a short time he has grown leaps and bounds. He is a champion to us no matter what.”
