Customer Spotlight: Whitney Shares About New Community Cooking Group
We’re excited to relaunch our Customer Spotlight series, where we amplify the voices, accomplishments, and experiences of the individuals we serve at Community Pathways. Through these stories, we’ll introduce customers who are pursuing their goals, building connections, and making a difference in the community
This summer, Community Pathways’ Administrative and Communications Specialist, Anna, sat down with CPI customer Whitney, who is helping bring a new Community Cooking Group to life.
Whitney works at Fred Meyer as a Front End Clerk and Bagger. One of her favorite parts of the job is connecting with customers and meeting new people. She previously participated in the Hob Nob Cooking Group and appreciated the sense of community it created. When that program ended, Whitney became inspired to create something similar and host it here at Community Pathways, located in the Seven Corners Collaborative building on SE Ladd Avenue in Portland.
The new monthly Community Cooking Group, which will supported by Personal Support Workers and community members, will provide adults with disabilities an opportunity to build practical life skills, develop meaningful connections, and grow as leaders. The program will focus on consistency, hands-on skill development, and shared responsibility among participants. Whitney emphasized the importance of learning food safety and knife safety, both of which will be key components of the group. As participants gain confidence and experience, they will also have opportunities to take on leadership roles by mentoring newer members and demonstrating skills during group sessions.
When asked what she is most excited about, Whitney didn’t hesitate: “I like to be around people and socializing, and cooking.”
She also shared ideas for making the group a welcoming and fun space. While the meals are cooking, participants will have the opportunity to socialize, connect, and build friendships.
As for the menu, Whitney is open to trying just about anything, but if she had to choose a favorite meal, it would be a chef salad.
We’re grateful for Whitney’s vision, enthusiasm, and leadership in helping create this new opportunity. We can’t wait to see the Community Cooking Group grow and look forward to sharing more updates as it gets underway. Stay tuned for future Customer Spotlights as we continue highlighting the individuals who make up the Community Pathways community!
Join Upcoming Cooking Classes!
Do you enjoy cooking, trying new recipes, and spending time with others? Joining this upcoming series of cooking classes—hosted at Community Pathways and supported by community members—is a fun way to build kitchen skills, make new friends, and prepare delicious meals together.
Who Can Attend?
These classes are open to customers of any Support Services Brokerage in Oregon. Participants should attend with their provider.
Class Schedule
There will be 8 cooking classes throughout the fall, with 2 classes each month (except September and November).
Each class will include 6–8 participants, creating a small, supportive group where everyone can learn and participate.
Class Dates
August: 14 and 18
September: 1, 15, and 29
October: 13 and 27
November: 10
Time
2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location
Community Pathways
2475 SE Ladd Avenue
4th Floor – Room 418, Kitchen, and Patio
Portland, OR 97214
We look forward to cooking with you! Come ready to learn new recipes, practice cooking skills, and enjoy a fun afternoon together.