STAFFORD COUNTY, Va.-- For most students in elementary school, recess is what they look forward to the most. Unless of course, maybe you don't quite fit in.
At just 10 years old, Alex knows what that feels like. He noticed a lot of kids sitting alone at recess, including himself.
"I just sat alone on the benches over there," he said.
For Alex's mother, that's tough to hear.
"You don't want any child feeling that way, especially your own," said Dottie Romo.
Alex came up with an idea to help bring the students together at Winding Creek Elementary School. He asked the school to put in a buddy bench.
"It protects people from bullies and makes them feel more safe," he said.
He and his family raised enough money for the bench. Now at recess, all of the students know exactly what to do when they see someone sitting on the bench.
"You walk over to them and ask if they want to play with you," said Robert Romo, Alex's brother.
Since it was installed on the playground, Alex said there aren't many students who spend recess alone anymore.
"As a parent I couldn't be more proud. Just being able to make a difference. It's not just about my child it's about every child," said Dottie Romo.
Right now Alex and his family are working on putting a buddy bench in every elementary school in Stafford County. It has also inspired them to create their own non-profit, Brighter Tomorrows to help kids.
If you know someone who is making a positive impact in their community, please e-mail Marcella Robertson.
