The Chef and the Child

Chef & Child Program

Nourishing the Future — One Bite at a Time

The Chef & Child Initiative is a national outreach program of the American Culinary Federation (ACF), dedicated to promoting nutrition education, healthy eating habits, and culinary literacy among children and families. At the Columbus Chapter of the ACF, we are proud to support this mission through hands-on programming, community events, and partnerships that empower young people to make informed food choices.

Our Mission

To fight childhood hunger and obesity by teaching children and their families the value of balanced nutrition, food safety, and cooking skills in a fun and approachable way.

What We Do in Columbus

Our local chapter brings the Chef & Child mission to life with:

• Interactive cooking demos at schools, libraries, and community centers

• Seasonal nutrition workshops and family-focused events  

• Collaboration with local farms, health departments, and nonprofits to share resources and expand our reach

• Celebrations of National Childhood Nutrition Day in October, along with year-round outreach

Whether we’re introducing kids to new fruits and vegetables, encouraging them to explore the kitchen with confidence, or supporting parents in preparing wholesome meals on a budget, our work always centers the joy of food and the importance of connection.

Get Involved

Are you a chef, culinary student, educator, or community member who wants to make a difference? Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year. No culinary degree required—just a passion for helping kids and families thrive.

To get involved or request a Chef & Child visit, contact us at [email protected] — we’ll get you in touch with our Chef & Child Chair!

Together, We Can Feed More Than Just Appetites

Join us in inspiring the next generation to cook, eat, and live well.