Best Buddies to ‘party like it’s 1989’ at second annual prom Saturday in Willits

An international nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities will be hosting its second annual prom from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, at The Arts Campus at Willits. 

“For students with disabilities, prom season can often feel isolating,” Michelle Stiller, Best Buddies Roaring Fork Valley area director, said in a news release. “We will party like it’s 1989 — when Best Buddies was founded!”

Best Buddies focuses on creating one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living and family support for individuals with IDD. The event will feature Best Buddies Global Ambassador Frances Sheinberg as well as local country musician and Basalt High School student Tristan Trincado. 

Sheinberg is an autistic rapper known for introducing the likes of Tom Brady, 50 Cent, and Guy Fieri at Best Buddies events and was recently featured in a Jersey Mike’s campaign to raise money for the nonprofit. The campaign raised $4.3 million.

Trincado learned how to play the guitar after he was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome in 2023 and has since become a country musician. 

Both Sheinberg and Trincado embody the spirit of Best Buddies’ mission of inclusion and empowerment, according to the release. 

The Best Buddies Prom will be open to all and free to attend.