The Lunch Buddy Program is a mentoring initiative implemented in middle schools in Catawba County School, Hickory Public Schools, and Newton-Conover City Schools since 2011.
It is designed help reach students who would benefit from having an additional positive role model. The Lunch Buddy Program helps create healthy attitudes and behavior in youth, as well as provide skills, resources, and positive experiences that will aid them in becoming successful, productive citizens.
Before joining the Council in 2025, Bunny worked as an art teacher at Catawba Rosenwald Education Center (CREC), where she connected with some of Catawba County's most resilient and creative students! She’s passionate about mentoring and believes in giving young people opportunities to explore and experience a diverse and beautiful world. Bunny is also an artist and runs a side business selling art, toys, and games out of refurbished snack vending machines!
When she’s not working, you can usually find her painting, hiking, roller skating, or playing video games. She’s excited to bring her creativity and enthusiasm to the Council and connect with the amazing young people growing up in our community.
For more information reach out to Bunny,
beaton@coacatawba.org or call the office, 828-322-4591!