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My Buddy Bench Project (MBBP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting kindness, empathy, community, leadership and Mental Health Wellness is thrilled to announce the unveiling of a “Buddy Bench” at Laura C. Saunders Elementary School. This initiative has been made possible through the generous donation from Doing Good Together™ (DGT), which is empowering families to raise children who care and contribute.
The Buddy Bench symbolizes a commitment to fostering friendships and creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported. When a student sits on the Buddy Bench, it serves as a signal to their peers that they are in need of a friend or someone to talk to, promoting empathy and understanding among students.
“We are excited to introduce the Buddy Bench to Laura C. Saunders Elementary School”, says Victoria Portela, Co-Founder of My Buddy Bench Project. “I was an elementary school student not so long ago and I experienced what it feels like to be socially isolated, and at times, bullied. I want to help other kids feel included and make friends. With the help of a Buddy Bench and Kindness Ambassadors, we can make a positive and life-changing difference.”
“It’s not just a bench; it’s a beacon of kindness.” By promoting empathy and friendship, we hope to help children overcome bullying with Kindness and create an environment where every kid feels included, valued and supported.” Mary Portela, Mom & Co-Founder of My Buddy Bench Project.
Buddy, our Certified Therapy Dog and beloved Kindness Ambassador mascot, plays a vital role in promoting mental health and emotional well-being. Through My Buddy Bench Project, Buddy helps create spaces where kindness, inclusion, and mental health awareness thrive, reminding everyone that even the smallest acts of compassion can make a big difference.
The unveiling ceremony, scheduled for April 30, 2025, will feature Licensed Psychologist, Dr. Rina Santiago-Guia & Founder of Monarch All Health, and Dr. Kamila Lillie-Johnson Principal of Laura C. Saunders Elementary School including the MBBP Co-Founders -mom & daughter duo. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of the My Buddy Bench Project initiative and how it contributes to creating a supportive school climate while highlighting the importance of Mental Health Wellness.
“During a time when kindness seems to have been forgotten, the My Buddy Bench Project is a reminder to our upcoming generation that love and support of one another should never be overlooked.” – Dr. Rina S. Santiago-Guia, Psy.D, Clinical Licensed Psychologist, Cofounder & Clinical Director, Monarch All Health, LLC.
“As the proud principal of Laura C. Saunders Elementary, I have dedicated over 25 years to education and have served as an administrator since 2013. It brings me great joy to see our school receive an artistic Buddy Bench, a symbol of inclusivity, friendship, and creativity. This bench will not only provide a welcoming space for students to connect but will also serve as a reminder that kindness and support are always within reach. We are grateful for this meaningful addition to our school community, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our students for years to come.” – Principal Dr. Kamila Lillie-Johnson.
“With funding from the Al & Jane Nahmad Family Foundation, Doing Good Together has been able to do some incredible work in Miami. We are so grateful to have the opportunity to partner with nonprofits like The Buddy Bench Project and schools like Laura Saunders, where we have the chance to show kids the importance of kindness and create opportunities for families to serve together to impact the local community in a meaningful way.” – MiaLisa Millares, J.D., Ed.M.Executive Director, Doing Good Together™.
Members of the media, community leaders, parents, and students are invited to join us for this special occasion and witness the unveiling of the Buddy Bench. Together, let’s take a stand against bullying and create a culture of kindness in our community.
For more information about My Buddy Bench Project and how you can support our mission, please visit mybuddybenchproject.org.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 30th,2025
- Time: 9:00 am
- Location: Laura C. Saunders Elementary School, 505 SW 8th St, Homestead, FL 33030
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