The Fort Myers Metro-McGregor Kiwanis and Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) AKtion club collected and recycled more than 200 pounds of plastic bottle caps to create a Buddy Bench for the LARC campus in Fort Myers. The bench is in rainbow colors and imprinted with the names of the organizations and “One friend can change your whole life.” The bench was manufactured by The Roudebush Company.

“A Buddy Bench is a small, safe haven,” said Karen Hurst, LARC Aktion Club advisor. “Individuals who are feeling emotional or lonely can sit on the bench as a clear signal to others that they are in need of social connection.”

“The Aktion Club is a service club for adults with disabilities,” said Angela Katz, LARC Development and Communications Director. “Aktion Club provides an opportunity for LARC participants to build leadership and decision-making skills. Our members experience meaningful community-service activities and learn how working together they can make a difference to the world around them. We are grateful to the Fort Myers Metro-McGregor Kiwanis for sponsoring our club.”

Kiwanis International is a global community of clubs, members and partners dedicated to improving the lives of children one community at a time. Each community has different needs, and Kiwanis empowers members to pursue creative ways to serve the needs of children, such as fighting hunger, improving literacy and offering guidance.

Established in 1954, LARC Inc.’s mission is to empower and support individuals with disabilities and their families to reach their full potential. To learn more about LARC, contact Angela Katz, Development Director at 239-334-6285 x229 or email [email protected] or visit www.larcleecounty.org.