Walmart associates cooking and connecting with central Ohio students

(COLUMBUS, OH) -- More than a dozen Walmart managers and associates from several stores in central Ohio recently had the opportunity to meet and work with local middle and high school students and put their baking skills to work at Kitchen of Life.

Kitchen of Life is an initiative that teaches teens social and emotional skills through cooking and was established by long-time Walmart community partner, LifeTown Columbus. LifeTown is a nonprofit dedicated to providing students opportunities to develop life and pre-employment skills.

According to Tony Crosby, the Lead Coach at the Lewis Center Walmart, it was an unforgettable experience for he and his Walmart colleagues, as they got to spend the day speaking with the students and helping them follow various recipes. For Crosby, it was about more than gathering and measuring ingredients, it was a chance to really connect with the students and help them get a sense of belonging as a member of a team.

“As Walmart associates, we all believe and understand that you have to give to the community before you can receive from the community,” Crosby said. “Today, we got to see firsthand what this is all about – making real positive connections with teens who may not see their value and the talent they have to give to a group.”

Kitchen of Life is located in Bexley on Columbus’ east side and works with schools and classes throughout central Ohio. The organization aims to create new and positive experiences to help at-risk students to work with teams, grow competence, confidence, character and skills that can be utilized in and outside the classroom.

“Walmart volunteers provided guidance and encouragement while giving our youth at Kitchen of Life the opportunity for meaningful social interaction through a hands-on culinary experience,” said LifeTown Columbus Executive Director Areyah Kaltmann. “Our Walmart team in Columbus not only help the average American family ‘Save Money, and Live Better’ but they took their time to uplift Columbus teenagers from all backgrounds with critical resiliency skills gleaned through the medium of cooking.”

With the philosophy that our associates are residents, neighbors, friends and family, Walmart is committed to strengthening the communities in which it operates through both its retail business and community giving. In addition, Walmart associates often support local organizations by giving their time and talent to assist organizations that work to make things better for those in the community.