Help Thomas Build a Buddy Bench for Avalon Elementary School

Every Child Deserves Someone to Play With

For many children, recess is the best part of the school day. But for others, it can be the loneliest.

Imagine being a child who wants to join a game but doesn't know how to ask, or feels too shy or afraid of being rejected. Too often, these students spend recess standing alone, feeling invisible.

My name is Thomas Haddaway, and for my Eagle Scout Service Project, I am building and installing a Buddy Bench at Avalon Elementary School—a simple idea with the power to make a lasting difference.

A Buddy Bench is a special place on the playground where a student can sit if they are feeling lonely or looking for a friend. It serves as a silent signal to other children that someone could use a playmate or a kind invitation to join in. This simple bench encourages compassion, inclusion, and friendship while helping every child feel seen and valued.

Why This Project Matters

Children learn best when they feel safe, accepted, and connected.

By creating a welcoming space where students can easily ask for friendship without saying a word, this project will:

Help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

Encourage students to practice kindness and empathy.

Build a more inclusive playground culture.

Give shy or struggling students an easy way to connect with their peers.

Create a lasting resource that will benefit Avalon Elementary students for years to come.

My hope is that this Buddy Bench becomes more than just a bench—it becomes a symbol of kindness and belonging for every student who walks onto the playground.

About My Eagle Scout Project

As part of earning the rank of Eagle Scout, I am responsible for planning, organizing, fundraising, and leading a team of volunteers to complete this project from start to finish. I will coordinate every phase, from purchasing materials and constructing the bench to organizing volunteers and installing it at Avalon Elementary School.

This project allows me to develop leadership skills while leaving a meaningful, lasting impact on my community.

How Your Donation Helps

Every dollar donated goes directly toward building and installing the Buddy Bench.

Funds will be used for:

Pressure-treated lumber

Hardware, screws, lag bolts, and anchors

Exterior wood sealer

Soil and flowers for the integrated planter

Outdoor liner materials

Sanding and finishing supplies

Safety equipment for volunteers

Paint brushes, tarps, and other project supplies

Water, snacks, and meals for the volunteer team during construction

The estimated project cost is approximately $650, and my fundraising goal is $900 to help cover taxes, fees, and any unexpected project expenses. Any remaining funds or materials will be provided to Avalon Elementary School in accordance with Eagle Scout project guidelines.

How You Can Help

Whether you donate $10 or $100, every contribution brings this project one step closer to becoming a reality.

If you're unable to donate, you can still make a difference by sharing this fundraiser with your family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors.

Together, we can help create a playground where every child knows they have a place to belong.

Thank you for supporting my Eagle Scout journey and for helping make Avalon Elementary School an even kinder and more welcoming place for every student.

— Thomas Haddaway