![Students pose for a picture while recruiting new members. [Source: Cofounder, Helen Lee]](http://www.jstudentboard.com/reporter/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/2-8-safer.jpg)
[Source: Cofounder, Helen Lee]
Most students are well aware with the concept of bullying, in which one person uses strength or intimidation to harm someone else. Studies show that 60 percent of students with special needs are bullied in contrast to the 25 percent of peers who have no disabilities. Countless schools, news reports, and city officials have put in the time to address the effects of this issue. The effort is made to raise awareness, but how do people react?
Students at Crescenta Valley High school have taken the stand to start a spark in the community with Best Buds club. Best Buds club works towards creating a friendly environment for all students. Cofounder Helen Lee shares, “Best Buds club is devoted to helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with new friendships and opportunities.”
The club encourages its members to spend their lunch with a couple new friends once a week to help students regain confidence. These meetings usually consist of spending time with buddies by engaging in group activities and meeting new people. The Best Buds community reminds students to “never judge a book by it’s cover,” which several students agree to.
Madeline Kim shares her experience with the club as she states, “Best Buds has really opened up my eyes to see character rather than appearance. It’s so funny how society stereotypes students who are different. Without this club I would have never met some of the most courageous, hilarious, and kind hearted kids I know.”
The Crescenta Valley High School Best Buds community strives for a safer environment for all students despite differences.
