KarunaNews Story

Overlooking downtown Whitehorse, Canada, from a bench along the clay cliffs, the city is hugged by mountains and ravens catch updrafts, rocketing them high into the air. “This is the most dramatic spot for a bench,” said Frédérik Robert, who quietly built it by hand. For nearly a decade, the Whitehorse resident has made similar benches. Aside from a few spirited away by people, there are dozens across the city, from Canyon City to Hillcrest. Robert said there are more than 40 in all. Some are found nestled deep along woodland trails. The more picturesque, the better, he said. Robert said he's just giving back to the community in the way he wants. The concept: A nice place to sit. Bonus, you're surrounded by the natural world. “Each time you see a bench, sit down,” he said. “I do that, and it forces me to calm down and relax and notice the birds. Life is hectic.” Robert urges everyone to give back, however small. “It doesn't have to be a great big thing,” he said. “It doesn't have to be worth millions of dollars. You could shovel your street." Gesturing toward the bench, he said, "or, you could make this.”