Recipe For Success

The New Hampshire Food Bank's Chef Jayson McCarter was pleased to attend the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, IL last month. He joined thousands of industry professionals sharing innovative products, ideas, and technology. Attending the show gave him the chance to identify areas where our program can be improved and what services we can add to strengthen our education pieces. For example, lacking a POS system in our kitchen is a major hindrance to students as we try to prepare them for a career in the food industry. We are working to provide this tool in the near future to give students a full experience of working in food services. This event was a great way for Chef Jayson to foster relationships with industry leaders and share the mission of our program.

Chef Jayson has also been invited to join the Item Review and Development Committee working on developing a new ServSafe exam. ServSafe coursework is a vital component of our training program. Employed RFS graduates tell us that they are grateful to have such a strong foundation of safe food practices and these skills set them apart from co-workers.

The Culinary Job Training Program is an eight-week course designed for unemployed or underemployed individuals pursuing careers in the culinary industry. Students learn the fundamentals of working in a commercial kitchen through hands on experience and ServSafe coursework. Each student takes the ServSafe Manager's Certification exam, gains experience catering events, and serves thousands of community members through registered agencies of the NH Food Bank. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/nh.recipeforsuccess

If you know anyone interested in applying for an upcoming class series, contact Emily Anderson, Recipe for Success Administrative Assistant, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 603.669.9725 ext. 147. To arrange a tour of our facility, meet the staff of the program, and learn more about how we can be a resource for your establishment contact Helen Costello, Program Manager at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Chef Jayson McCarter at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . 603.669.9725 ext. 145.

Cooking Matters®

Attention culinary and nutrition professionals! Please join us Tuesday, June 12, 2012 from 5:30-7:30PM for our Cooking Matters Volunteer Appreciation Mixer at the New Hampshire Food Bank! This mixer is open to culinary and nutrition professionals interested in volunteering with our six-week signature course series or education based outreach like Shopping Matters, and to existing volunteers who have donated their time and talents to the Cooking Matters program. Participating with Cooking Matters is an innovative way to showcase your talents, work with your community, and become part of the national movement to end childhood hunger. Our volunteers are the reason Cooking Matters has been able to successfully reach so many children and families throughout the state. We are excited to host an evening where we can show our appreciation, share experiences, network with fellow volunteers, and get excited for upcoming classes!

This event will be held in the Culinary Job Training Kitchen at the NH Food Bank at 700 East Industrial Park Drive Manchester, NH 03109. Please RSVP using the following link:

http://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?pli=1&formkey=dDVYMG4zeVR3YU9kMTdfQjh6SjdzOXc6MQ#gid=0

Summer classes are right around the corner! Volunteer chefs, nutrition professionals, and support volunteers are the core of Cooking Matters and are needed across the state. We currently have classes scheduled in Derry, Hinsdale, Manchester, Portsmouth, and Somersworth. If you would like to volunteer in any of these areas, contact Julie at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Cooking Matters, a program of Share Our Strength, empowers families with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to prepare healthy and affordable meals. Our volunteers take a hands-on approach to educate those at risk of hunger and malnutrition about how to make better choices about the foods they eat. Results are not only seen in the classroom, but in the simple changes adults, children, and families make to lead healthier lives. For more information about how to get involved, contact Becca Story,

Becca Story MS RD LD

Cooking Matters® Coordinator

603.669.9725 X 130