The Friends Program

We’re so grateful for our AmeriCorps programs and volunteers, whose impact makes New Hampshire a stronger, brighter, and better place for all generations

📣 PROGRAM SHOUT OUT! 🍳
Cooking with Confidence was a six-week experiential learning program offered through The Friends Program 🤝 in partnership with Rundlett Middle School 🏫. Led by Taylor B. Louk-McNutt, Youth Mentoring Manager, alongside Chef Amber 👩‍🍳, the program engaged 16 middle school students in hands-on cooking experiences designed to build confidence 💪, independence 🌱, and essential life skills 🧠.

Each week, students worked collaboratively 🤗 to learn kitchen safety 🔪, basic nutrition 🥗, meal preparation 🍽️, and teamwork 🤝 while preparing simple, healthy dishes. The small-group format fostered a supportive and inclusive environment ❤️ where students felt encouraged to try new foods 🌮, strengthen communication skills 💬, and build positive relationships with peers and mentors 👥.

At the conclusion of each session, students enjoyed dinner together 🍽️ and took home the meals they created 🥡 to share with their families 🏡—extending the impact of the program beyond the classroom and into their homes ✨.

The program was hosted in a welcoming kitchen space generously donated by Wesley United Methodist Church 🙏, whose support made this experience possible and helped create a safe, community-centered environment 🫶 for learning and connection.

Over the six-week program, students demonstrated increased confidence in the kitchen ⭐, improved collaboration 🤝, and a strong sense of pride in their accomplishments 🎉. Cooking with Confidence proved to be a meaningful and successful experience, reinforcing The Friends Program’s mission to empower youth through mentorship and practical life skills 💙