BETTENDORF, Iowa — A local Girl Scout is being recognized for coming up with a way to help make school a more friendly and positive environment, and it...

BETTENDORF, Iowa — A local Girl Scout is being recognized for coming up with a way to help make school a more friendly and positive environment, and it’s all based around a place to sit.

At six area schools Kendra Bries built “Buddy Benches,” which are used to help kids from feeling alone. How they work:

When a child feels lonely or upset, they go have a seat on the benches, which their classmates can see. Then, their peers are encouraged to invite the, to play or to talk about what is bothering them.

“My project works by encouraging kids to go outside of their comfort zone and make new friends,” said Kendra.

For her idea, Kendra received the Gold Award, which is the highest award in the organization.

The following criteria must be met to earn a Gold Award: