OKLAHOMA CITY –
After school, kids are hungry and a good nutritional meal is definitely needed, and that’s where the Boys and girls club of Oklahoma county is stepping in.
“Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County provide a safe place for kids to go after school and on school breaks,” said Carly Johnson, Director of Development for The Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County.
In addition to a safe place, each kid receives a healthy dose of hope.
“We want to provide an opportunity for every kid to realize their potential and realize their dreams,” said Johnson.
Everything is done through a variety of programs, from athletic to academic, to workforce readiness, and even cooking.
Through the Top Chef program, middle school and high school participants learn to plan a meal and create a grocery list, prepare written recipes, and create their own dishes.
The top chef program all under the watchful eyes of volunteers with the Junior League of Oklahoma City.
“They come in every week, and work with eighteen kiddos, who are learning how to work in the kitchen,” said Kristin Vannort, president of the Junior League of Oklahoma City.
As the ladies transfer culinary skills, they also transfer a piece of their heart.
“Our members really grow attached to the kids here and love seeing them week after week,” said Vannort.
“It’s really fun. I get to spend quality time with my friends, and we get to laugh a lot and when we eat it we are really proud of ourselves,” said Top Chef participant 11-year-old Adryel.
Classes are held once a week for about an hour. Well worth it for everyone involved.
“But it could be their future career, their future hobby, their future passion,” said Johnson.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to work with these kids,” said Vannort.
For information about the Top Chef program contact The Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County @ www.bgcokc.org For information about the Junior League of Oklahoma City visit www.jloc.org
Dining and Cooking