At Ohio Wesleyan University, student involvement goes beyond extracurricular activities. It's a part of cultivating friendships, developing skills, and making a positive impact on the community. One of these stand-out initiatives making waves is the Cooking Matters program.
This program, in conjunction with the OWU Department of Health and Human Kinetics (HHK), is dedicated to addressing food insecurities in the Delaware, Ohio, community through education and hands-on cooking experiences.
Since the program's formation in 2014, Cooking Matters has served to promote healthy eating practices through skill-building and education, which is an important undertaking in a county where about 12.6% of the population faces food insecurity.
Every Tuesday at noon, student members of Cooking Matters meet to prepare lesson plans and materials for their classes. Under the guidance of Dr. Chris Fink, a professor in the HHK department, the group reviews strategies and resources to enhance their community outreach. The program hosts several cooking classes each month–targeting diverse age groups, from children to adults, to get essential nutritional information into the hands of people who need it most.
I spoke with Carley Lounsbury, a senior member of the Cooking Matters program. When asked about the program, she said “Joining Cooking Matters was one of the best decisions I made during my time at OWU. It’s a way to meet new people and connect with the community while learning about something that impacts us all– food, and our diets.”
Involvement in Cooking Matters is not just an opportunity to contribute to the community; it’s also a way for students to gain valuable experience and enhance career development. The skills learned through the program, from public speaking to event planning, are transferable to any career path.
“I have learned so much about leadership and teamwork,” said Lounsbury.
As I wrapped up my discussion with Lounsbury, she encouraged me to get fellow students to consider joining Cooking Matters. “This program isn’t just about cooking; it's about building community! We have a place for everyone, and I hope more students consider joining us this year.”
If you are interested in joining the Cooking Matters program and making a positive impact in the Delaware community, reaching out is the first step! The program welcomes students who are passionate about nutrition, cooking, and community service.
Students can contact the Cooking Matters team via email or through the Ohio Wesleyan University student organization page to express their interest.
Photos By Lauren McClymont
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