Over the next few weeks, the Catawba County United Way will be highlighting the executive and program directors of the CCUW's funded partner agencies for 2023.
Every year, the CCUW looks to partner with local non-profits through our large grant cycle and help support their programs focused on improving the lives of those in need in the areas of education, financial stability and health.
Named the Lunch Buddy program, it focuses on matching adult mentors with local middle school students.
1. What drew you to your current position and working in the non-profit world?
After retiring from my 30-year career in public health, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work at my favorite non-profit when the Mentoring Program Coordinator position became available! It was perfect timing and a perfect fit and a chance to try something different! I loved my 30-year career in local government but have found a new love and appreciation for the non-profit world. It’s not always easy, but it’s very rewarding. I’m continually amazed at the great work going on in the non-profit world in our county, there are so many dedicated people truly passionate about making our community a better place for all.
2. What is the biggest challenge your agency faces today?
Our agency constantly faces two big challenges. One is funding and the other is volunteers. As a non-profit, we are grateful for United Way funding, but we also must write grants, seek sponsors, and fundraise to secure additional funding to offer all the programs and services we provide. As the Lunch Buddy Mentoring Program Coordinator, I’m always in need of volunteers that are willing to eat lunch once a week during the school year with a middle schooler who needs an additional positive role model in their life. The more volunteers I have, the more students I can impact.
