By Cindy Adams

Imagine a student who typically eats lunch alone and dreads recess because they have no one to play with. They've become an easy target for teasing because they always seem isolated and vulnerable. A Buddy Bench is intended to give this student a clear, dignified way to signal they would welcome company. Instead of looking lost, they can sit on the designated bench which is a universal symbol that says, "I could use a friend right now."

Roanoke Minnick was recently given a Buddy Bench by Vince and Barbara Brandtner. Vince was the former State President of the Virginia Elks Association, and the bench was given as a gift in his and his wife’s honor for them to donate to a school of his choosing.

"The Elks Lodge continues to be incredibly good to us," said Rebecca Bays, Principal of Roanoke Minnick School. "When I went to a meeting a while back and asked for $2,500, they offered $5,000. They are big supporters of children, and we are so grateful for their support."

Rebecca explained that Student Support Professionals at the school will be tasked with educating students on the Buddy Bench’s purpose and how to respond. That starts with simply noticing someone sitting there and then inviting the student to join in a game or a conversation. This simple interaction could break the cycle of isolation that often makes a student a target for bullying.

"We hope it helps stop some of the conflict that happens between students," said Vince. "Sometimes you just need to sit down and talk."

The Buddy Bench serves as a visual reminder to look out for those who might be struggling socially. It also creates a culture where reaching out to others becomes the norm rather than the exception. In schools, like Minnick, where inclusion is actively promoted and loneliness is addressed early, bullying behaviors tend to naturally decrease because students develop stronger empathy and social connections. The Buddy Bench is a valuable tool in this effort.

"It may not eliminate bullying entirely, but it can be an important part of building a caring school environment," Rebecca said. "We want every student to feel like they belong here."

And sometimes belonging can start on a bench.