Cooking With Jacob's Chance & VDSA Builds Confidence and Community

There’s something magical about gathering in the kitchen. Whether it’s teaching each other new skills, bonding over a new recipe, or shared laughter, cooking has always been an activity that brings people together. At Good Neighbor Village, we believe that independence and growth come from new opportunities, and sometimes those opportunities begin in the kitchen.

This May, Good Neighbor Village is excited to partner with the Virginia Down Syndrome Association (VDSA) and Jacob’s Chance to host kitchen safety and cooking classes in one of the cottages. This series allows attendees to interact with others, meet new friends, and learn valuable life skills. The classes will take place every Friday morning in May from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Cooking with Confidence & Building Community

At Good Neighbor Village, we’re always seeking meaningful ways to support adults with mild-to-moderate intellectual disabilities as they grow in independence within a safe, nurturing community. This cooking series provides participants with the opportunity to build confidence in the kitchen and feel empowered to prepare meals at home. By partnering with the Virginia Down Syndrome Association and Jacob’s Chance, we welcome new faces into our village and create space for friendships to form through shared experiences.

Learning in a safe, home-like environment helps participants thrive. That’s why the cooking series is led by supportive instructors who welcome mistakes and encourage hands-on learning. Held in a residential kitchen, the classes mirror the comfort and familiarity of home while reinforcing real-world skills. During the series, participants will learn:

• The basics of kitchen safety
• How to use kitchen equipment and tools correctly (including knives and heat)
• How to measure ingredients accurately
• Recipe terminology
• How to read and understand food labels
• How to prepare dishes using delicious recipes

By the end of May, participants will have the confidence and skills to cook a variety of dishes for themselves, their families, and their friends.