Help Us Empower Youth Through Cooking with Cook It Forward!

Hi, my name is Adam Worden, and I started Cook It Forward because I believe every young person deserves the skills and confidence to cook for themselves. This program was born from a simple yet powerful moment—when my 7-year-old foster daughter proudly made eggs on her own for the first time. The joy and independence she felt that day inspired me to create a program that teaches kids and teens, especially those who are in at-risk or vulnerable situations, how to cook real, nourishing meals.

Now, thanks to an incredible partnership with Oryana West, we’re launching our first series of hands-on cooking classes for youth who may not have had the chance to learn these essential life skills. But we need your help to make it happen!

What Makes Cook It Forward Special?

At Cook It Forward, every child and teen will be paired with a dedicated mentor. Someone who will guide them through each class, build connection and trust, and help them feel supported. We know that learning goes beyond just following a recipe; it’s about building confidence, community, and life skills that last far beyond the kitchen.

Our first class will focus on teens preparing for independent living, teaching them how to cook simple, healthy meals they can make on their own as they transition into adulthood.

Why We’re Raising Funds

Your donation will go directly toward:

Cooking supplies – Knives, cutting boards, ingredients, and journals for students to track their progress.

Lesson materials – Age-appropriate guides and hands-on activities designed to build confidence in the kitchen.

Expanding our reach – Helping us grow Cook It Forward so more youth can gain the skills they need to cook, nourish themselves, and build independence.

Becoming a nonprofit – We’re also raising funds to apply for tax-exempt status, which will allow us to expand our impact, apply for grants, and ensure Cook It Forward continues to grow and serve more youth in need.

Where We’re Headed

This is just the beginning. With your support, we envision expanding Cook It Forward to reach more at-risk youth, schools, and community centers in Grand Traverse County and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to create a sustainable, long-term program that continues to teach, mentor, and empower kids through the joy of cooking.

Will you help us Cook It Forward? Any amount makes a difference, and we are deeply grateful for your support. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this campaign to spread the word!

Together, we can give these kids skills that will last a lifetime. Thank you for believing in this mission!