Sweet Moments and Lasting Impact at Mandala School
One resident’s monthly visits are bringing creativity, connection, and confidence to local students
Bonnie with her seven grandchildren. Owen, who attends Mandala School, is pictured to her right in a Bass Pro cap.
For Bonnie Brader, making a difference does not require grand gestures. It starts with showing up, sharing time, and creating moments that matter.
A resident of Henslow Way, Bonnie volunteers once a month at Mandala School, leading hands-on food crafts and activities with students. Each visit brings something new, but the heart of it stays the same. It is about giving kids a chance to create, connect, and simply enjoy the experience.
Her most recent visit embraced all things spring.
From decorating cupcakes topped with “dirt” and gummy worms to crafting butterfly-themed treats and flower-inspired desserts, the classroom was filled with color and creativity. Students also assembled cucumber flower sandwiches and decorated cookies, turning simple ingredients into edible works of art.
But beyond the treats themselves, it is the experience that leaves the biggest impact.
Bonnie’s visits offer students the opportunity to slow down, try something new, and take pride in what they create. It is a space where confidence builds naturally through laughter, encouragement, and the joy of doing something with their own hands.
“It’s about giving them something they can feel proud of and enjoy in the moment.”
For Bonnie, the connection is also deeply personal. With her grandson attending the school, each visit carries even more meaning, making the experience just as rewarding for her as it is for the students.
Located in East Aurora, Mandala School is known for its student-centered approach to learning. The school serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade and groups them based on ability rather than age. This allows each child to be challenged at the right level while still feeling supported and confident as they grow.
Assistant Director and teacher Kelsey Zimmerman sees firsthand how experiences like Bonnie’s visits enhance that environment.
“When volunteers like Bonnie come in, it gives our students something different and hands-on,” she shares. “It helps build confidence, encourages creativity, and gives them a chance to connect in a new way.”
Moments like these extend beyond the classroom. They create lasting impressions that help students feel seen, supported, and capable.
Through her time, creativity, and care, Bonnie is making a quiet but meaningful impact, one cupcake, one smile, and one visit at a time.
To learn more about Mandala School and its unique approach to education, visit mandalaschool.org.