Graham Elementary School is launching a new volunteer initiative designed to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives—one lunch conversation at a time.
The Lunch Buddy Program is a leadership project developed by Brooke Martinez, Director of Volunteer and Auxiliary Services at Mercy Health Urbana Hospital, and Valerie Henthorne, Real Estate Clerk for the Champaign County Auditor. Martinez and Henthorne are current participants in Leadership Champaign County and created the program as a way to strengthen connections between local schools and the wider community.
The initiative pairs caring, pre-approved community volunteers with elementary students who may benefit from additional positive adult interaction during lunchtime. Volunteers simply sit with students, chat, listen, and offer encouragement, helping to brighten a child’s day in a relaxed and supportive setting.
Organizers emphasize that the time commitment is flexible and manageable. Even occasional participation—such as sharing lunch with a student once every month or two—can have a lasting and positive impact.
Community members from all backgrounds are encouraged to participate, including retirees, business owners, first responders, college students, and members of the faith community. A background check is required for all volunteers to ensure student safety.
Martinez and Henthorne spoke about their program and how the community can get involved.
Program organizers hope the Lunch Buddy initiative will not only support students who benefit from extra encouragement, but also help strengthen community ties across Champaign County—one conversation at a time.
