"PROUD TO BE A BUDDY" FRIENDSHIP BENCH PROGRAM

Proud To Be Me raises funds for community resources, organizations and programs that help empower and educate youth in our mission towards inclusion and anti-bullying.

As part of our 2018-2019 operational plan we wanted to add a program that would do something for the community that reflected this spirit.  We couldn’t have been more excited to implement our "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program.

What is a "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship bench?

It's recess! Kids are screaming and balls are flying. Then you take a closer look, and find that some kids aren't joining in on the fun.

"Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program is all about inclusion and fostering a sense of friendship.  They are installed somewhere prominent in the school yard and kids who are looking to make new friends or broaden their friendship group will hang out at the "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Bench.  As schools make the "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program part of their culture it becomes a great focal point in the school community and helps to reduce isolation and build a real sense of friendship in the schoolyard.

Proud To Be Me has made it our mission to put a "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program in every elementary school in Ottawa and the surrounding area.

Our first "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program was installed at St. Michaels Corkery school  in 2018 as a result of our 2017/2018 grant Program. This was such a wonderful partnership and the school has done an amazing job supporting the "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program as our first partner school.

How can I get a "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program at my school?

If you would like to register to receive a "Proud To Be A Buddy" Friendship Program at your school. Please click register now button below.