The Taproot Kitchen Community is often described as having a feeling of “family”. It is one thing that makes this organization a special kind of team. Within the Taproot Community, you will also find “real deal” families! One family that has been with Taproot since its inception is Kris and Patrick – a mother/son team who can often be found in the kitchen gleaning locally grown produce, at catering events serving guests, and at meetings providing input for ways in which TRK can grow as a non-profit that serves individuals with a variety of talents and abilities.
This dynamic duo has been part of TRK from the beginning, participating in weekly gatherings at The Meetinghouse on Atherton Street where interested parties came together in the early days to learn culinary skills and to enjoy socializing with each other. The non-profit has since grown into a well-respected catering organization, serving anything from small business luncheons to larger local parties and receptions.
After retirement, Kris was looking for a place to volunteer where she could utilize her previous experience as an ESL teacher and her desire to work with young adults with intellectual disabilities. Having always wanted to open a coffee shop, TRK was the perfect blend of her interests and experience. For Patrick, this was also a perfect match because “I love cooking and being social!”
This mother/son duo have enjoyed contributing to the organization and in return they enjoy the camaraderie among the entire Taproot Kitchen “family”. They feel the incredible atmosphere can be described as being filled with fun and fellowship. Kris and Patrick would encourage others to consider volunteering at TRK because it is very fulfilling to be a part of enriching the lives of individuals who otherwise might not have the opportunity to continue learning, to interact with the community, and to experience rewarding work on a regular basis. This is their message to you — You can change the lives of these individuals by simply being willing to work alongside them and support the work of Taproot Kitchen. In this way, you can play a role in helping them transition into qualified candidate for gainful employment. Come join the Taproot Kitchen Family!
Help Us Grow
Taproot Kitchen depends on the support of our local community. From donations of extra food to funds that directly impact our ability to streamline our catering business, your extra help goes toward helping adults with intellectual disabilities engage in meaningful work and enter into the wider community of State College.
Taproot Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations are tax-deductible.
