Buddy Bench Inventor Receives State Award

State Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn, right) and Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch (left) awarded Fort Wayne resident, Sammie Vance, the Brilliant Firefly award for her development of the ‘Buddy Bench’ project, Tuesday, Jan. 25. The Brilliant Firefly award recognizes young Hoosiers who exemplify extraordinary community involvement.

When Vance was in third grade, she started the ‘Buddy Bench’ project to recycle plastic caps into park benches, so lonely children could sit on the bench and signify they are in need of a friend. Now attending Blackhawk Middle School as a seventh grader, Vance has appeared in People magazine, partnered with Walgreens to expand the project’s reach, and published a book titled Inspire the World: A Kid’s Journey to Making a Difference.

• Author
• Recent Posts

The Waynedale News Staff

Our in-house staff works with community members and our local writers to find, write and edit the latest and most interesting news-worthy stories. We are your free community newspaper, boasting positive, family friendly and unique news.

> Read More Information About Us
> More Articles Written By Our Staff

Latest posts by The Waynedale News Staff (see all)

• Celebrating A Historic 93 Years & A Legacy of Community - August 29, 2025
• Over 50,000 Free Books Mailed To Allen County Kids - August 29, 2025
• Award-Winning Artist To Speak At Tribute Dinner - August 29, 2025