ABOUT US

Norwich Bully Busters is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to preventing bullying and empowering families, educators, youth, and residents through education, awareness, and positive programming. We began as a grassroots response to a serious bullying incident in a local middle school, when a group of parents, led by founder Debbie Kievits, came together at a kitchen table to ask: What can we do to make our community safer, kinder, and more supportive for kids?

Over time, that response grew into a sustained mission to educate families, schools, and community members about bullying prevention and to demonstrate that “kindness is magical” — a guiding motto we continue to embrace.

Today, Norwich Bully Busters empowers parents, children, youth, educators, and community partners through engaging programs and events that promote positive social skills, compassion, and civic responsibility. While we still address bullying prevention and awareness, our work has expanded to include community service, leadership development, team building, creative projects, and collaborative initiatives that unite young people with opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

“We have over 450 Buddy Benches in local schools, libraries, businesses and community organizations.”

From Buddy Bench installations in local schools to youth service projects, collaborative recreation programs like Summer Jam, and ongoing kindness acts throughout Norwich, we emphasize that building connection and understanding is just as important as preventing hurtful behavior. We offer interactive, low-to-no cost programs and events designed to build empathy, respect, conflict-resolution skills, and community connection among children and adults alike.

We are volunteer-driven and community-built, working with partners such as Norwich Youth & Family Services, Norwich Recreation, local schools, and other regional organizations to foster a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone.