Bright Futures Audrain held their annual Lunch Buddy Luncheon at the Mexico High School Sports Complex on Wednesday.

The keynote speaker was CJ Huff. He started Bright Futures USA to bring resources to kids and communities. C.J. has a wide range of experience which includes classroom teacher, building principal, superintendent, and family farmer.

The Mexico community signed on to be a Bright Futures affiliate in 2014 and launched Bright Futures Audrain in 2015. One of the most popular programs is lunch buddies. The lunch buddy program matches a student with an adult lunch buddy who serves as a member. CJ told the audience on Wednesday about the importance of mentoring and the positive impact on children.

Marci Orr, President of Bright Futures Audrain says "It’s important for a child to have a trusted adult in their life. Bright Futures provides great resources for kids but a big part of it is about relationships. We find the adult lunch buddies are rewarded just as much as the children in the program. They enjoy and look forward to supporting the kids in our community. There are currently 3 lunch buddy adult mentors. Most of those are in elementary buildings. PreCOVID we had nearly 200 so we're trying to increase back to that number. At the elementary level, we're seeking 17 lunch buddies right now, but we are always looking for adult mentors in all buildings K-12."

Those interested, or anyone has questions, email brightfutures@mexico.k12.mo.us. or visit Mexico School District Central Office for an application and background check form.