The goal of the Parkinson’s Buddy Program is to reduce isolation, empower individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, and strengthen community through meaningful peer connection. By pairing participants with trained medical students, volunteers, and peers, the program fosters mutual learning, emotional support, and practical guidance. The program helps participants feel seen, supported, and understood, while also educating future healthcare providers and building a more compassionate, informed Parkinson’s care community.

The program serves as an early clinical exposure opportunity for medical students, allowing them to develop meaningful relationships with individuals living with Parkinson’s and gain firsthand insight into the realities of neurological disease. By fostering empathy, understanding, and mentorship, the program encourages students to pursue careers in neurology and movement disorders—helping address the critical shortage of movement disorder specialists and strengthening the future of Parkinson’s care.