29/05/2026
Services To Enhance Potential (STEP) is excited to announce the renaming of our culinary program from “What’s Cooking at STEP” to “STEP in the Kitchen.” The refreshed branding represents the energy and innovation of the program while strengthening its connection to STEP’s mission of creating pathways to independence and opportunity for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. The program will continue its commitment to hands-on learning, creativity, and empowering individuals through culinary education and experiences.
STEP in the Kitchen provides participants with opportunities to build practical cooking and food preparation skills while fostering confidence, teamwork, communication, and independence. The program creates an engaging environment where individuals can explore nutrition, culinary techniques, and real-world skill development in a supportive setting. Through STEP in the Kitchen, participants continue to gain meaningful experiences that support personal growth, community involvement, and future employment opportunities.
To support workforce development, STEP in the Kitchen partners with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to offer industry-recognized culinary and hospitality training. These experiences help participants build skills and knowledge for future careers in food service and hospitality.
Additionally, STEP will be enhancing classroom operations to ensure the program continues to grow alongside its participants while delivering the highest-quality learning experience possible. Structured schedules will help ensure participants fully engage in all aspects of the curriculum, including food safety, proper sanitation practices, and continued progress toward individual goals.
“We’re excited to introduce a name that reflects our long‑standing agency and its mission,” said Alyson Stauder, Culinary Programs Manager. “While our kitchen program has goals of its own, it ultimately exists to support and enhance the potential of our members - it’s more than a place to enjoy a snack; it’s a space for growth, learning, and opportunity. This new name serves as a reminder to be prepared and engaged when we STEP in the Kitchen, and we hope it feels welcoming and inspiring to everyone.”
STEP is always looking for opportunities to step into your kitchen, as well. Restaurants, food service providers, culinary professionals, and community partners interested in becoming a partner are encouraged to connect with Alyson Stauder at [email protected].
For more information about STEP in the Kitchen and other STEP programs, visit www.stepcentral.org.
