‘Buddy bench’ reminds students of the power of friendship

Pulaski Street School unveiled a new “buddy bench” donated in memory of Kaitlyn Doorhy by the local nonprofit Kait’s Angels. The buddy bench was placed under a tree near the playground to serve as a reflective and quiet space for students to connect, practice compassion, and strengthen their mental and emotional health.

“The buddy bench provides a safe, welcoming space for students who may be feeling lonely, need a moment to reflect, or simply want someone to talk to,” Pulaski Street School counselor Jen Boese said. “The concept is simple yet profound. When a student sits on the bench, it signals to others that they could use a friend, encouraging classmates to reach out, sit alongside them, and offer connection,” she said.

“A core mission at Pulaski Street School is to nurture kind, inclusive, and resilient students,” said Boese, who served as one of the event organizers.

The entire Pulaski student body—alongside Pulaski administrators, faculty, and staff as well as representatives from Kait’s Angels—came together for the special dedication ceremony, with many dressed in pink in support of Kaitlyn Doorhy.

The newly formed Pulaski student council led the school in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a school chorus performance of “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars. The buddy bench was then dedicated, with the ribbon cut by Pulaski fifth grader Taya Fusco alongside Darla Doorhy, Kaitlyn’s mother and a co-founder of Kait’s Angels.

“We hope that the Kaitlyn Doorhy buddy bench dedicated to the amazing Pulaski Street School students and staff will bring smiles to students, help them make new friends, and hopefully stop bullying,” said Darla Doorhy.

Kait’s Angels is a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting the North Fork community in honor of Kaitlyn Doorhy, a Mattituck woman whose life was tragically cut short at 20 years old in August 2014. Inspired by Kaitlyn’s commitment to giving, kindness, and gratitude, Kait’s Angels provides financial aid, practical services, and emotional support to those facing health challenges, unexpected life events, and financial hardship.

The first buddy bench was installed locally in October 2014 in memory of Kaitlyn Doorhy at Cutchogue East Elementary School, which she attended as a child. The following year, Darla Doorhy offered buddy benches in Kait’s memory to each elementary school on the North Fork. Buddy benches have been installed in Riverhead’s elementary schools.

 “I often remind my students that we never truly know the battles others may be facing—whether at home or within—so it is important to simply be kind,” Boese said. “The buddy bench will serve as a daily reminder of that message and the power of empathy. No one should ever feel alone in a world surrounded by so many people,” she said.

“We thank Kait’s Angels for this bench that will stand as a lasting symbol of compassion, inclusion, and friendship within our school community.”