WHAT IS LUNCH BUDDY?

The Lunch Buddy Program is a mentoring initiative that fulfills the America’s Promise pledge to provide every child with an on-going relationship with a caring adult. A lunch Buddy is a caring person willing to commit at least two hours a month to share food, fun and friendship with a student.

By volunteering two hours of lunch a month, an ordinary person can do the extraordinary by giving time and attention to a child in need.

REQUIREMENTS

• A commitment to sharing lunch with your lunch buddy October through May, at least twice a month.
• Spending a minimum of one-hour during lunchtime with your student.
• Bring your own lunch or buy lunch at the school cafeteria.
• Plan on an exciting time “back in school” with your Lunch Buddy!!

What if I have to miss Lunch Buddy day?

It is important to keep your promises to your buddy. However, we know there will be occasions when you will have to miss lunch. Contact the Site Coordinator at the school and let them know you cannot be there so that the school is prepared and the student can be properly reassigned/advised.

Do I pay for my own lunch?
Yes. School Lunch cost is subject to location. Contact the site coordinator for applicable fees. In order to help the lunch staff, please try to have the right change. You are also welcome to bring your own lunch.

May I pay for my buddy’s lunch?
No. Prior arrangements have been made for your buddy’s lunch.

What should I talk about?
Ask your buddy about his/her family, pets, favorite subjects in school, or favorite activities. Talk about your family as well. You should discuss hobbies, favorite sports and music. Share pictures and talk about your job or where you went to school. Be a good listener.

Is it okay to do other activities?
Each school has different policies regarding activities and gifts. Check with the site coordinator first.

May I take a treat to my Lunch Buddy?
Students get very excited on Lunch Buddy day. Giving them candy or other sweets may make it difficult for them to settle down after you’re gone. However you should contact the site coordinator regarding the school’s policy.

Are gifts appropriate?
Each school has its policy regarding gifts. First, check with the Site Coordinator. You may be allowed to acknowledge your buddy’s birthday with a modest present.

What do I do if my student confides at-risk information to me?
In order to develop a relationship in which you can be effective, you must first be perceived as trustworthy. You should have knowledge of your program’s confidentiality agreement. The only exception to this agreement is if you feel that the student is being physically abused, neglected or is involved in a life-threatening activity. In that case, you should immediately report the information to the principal or site coordinator. They will take the appropriate action.

 
Mentoring Tips

Be Patient- Building trust takes time. A young person may not show it at first, but your help may be just what is needed.

Praise is Power- A word of praise in a critical world works miracles in the life of a child.

Set Boundaries- Most mentoring relationships develop and flourish without problems. Occasionally; however, something comes up. Mentors have an important role, but this doesn’t include replacing family or social service professionals. A mentor can help guide a young person to the appropriate source for additional help.

Try to Understand a Child’s Viewpoint- Even if you don’t share his or her point of view, trying to appreciate it shows you care.

Be Honest- Kids know adults aren’t perfect. If you make mistakes, admit it. Say you’re sorry. It’s a skill a child may only learn from you.

Be there- Just the sound of your concerned voice can make a big difference in the life of a child.

Be Positive- Ask yourself, “What encouragement can I give if my young friend disappoints himself or herself?” Mentors are in the business of helping young people make the most of their lives. Allow the child to make a few “growing” mistakes when they learn new things.

Believe- Many children in our communities struggle with self-esteem. Your faith in them can be the greatest gift you can give.

City of Charleston | Mayor’s Office for Children Youth and Families

50 Broad Street | Charleston, SC 29401

Office: 843.965.2941 | Fax: 843.965.2942

wernsingw@ci.charleston.sc.us| www.charlestoncity.info

10/2/2007