Every week at Friends of the Children – Boston, Achievers gather for Cooking Crew, a hands-on program where youth learn kitchen skills, practice responsibility, and build friendships while preparing meals together. Achievers rotate roles throughout the evening, taking turns choosing recipes, cooking, setting the table, and cleaning up, giving everyone a chance to learn and contribute.

Cooking Crew is more than a place to cook. It's a space where Achievers build confidence, strengthen friendships, and take pride in what they accomplish together, guided by their Friends Stefan and Isaac.

Meet a few of the Achievers who make Cooking Crew such a special part of our Boston program.

Meet Arthur, Elliot, Ahmad & Miles

Arthur joined Cooking Crew to improve his cooking skills and has grown more confident each week as he learns new techniques and helps prepare meals. He enjoys working alongside his peers and especially likes cooking and playing soccer with his Friend. Arthur prides himself on his newfound skills, and when asked, "If you could tell people one thing about yourself, what would it be?" he immediately replied, "I'm a good cook!"

Elliot enjoys the social side of Cooking Crew and takes pride in being part of the team each week, in line with his dreams of "becoming famous". He has been building confidence in both cooking and reading by spending time reviewing recipes before the group begins.

Ahmad has embraced the hands-on learning offered by Cooking Crew, building confidence as he practices new kitchen skills and works alongside his peers. Week by week, he continues to grow more comfortable trying new things and contributing to the group, though he still remains a pure pizza lover!

Miles enjoys being part of the Cooking Crew team and takes pride in helping prepare meals that everyone can share. Through Cooking Crew, he continues to build independence and confidence while working together with his Friends and fellow Achievers. With dreams of becoming a future President, we have no doubt his cooking skills will serve him well.

Programs like Cooking Crew give Boston Achievers the chance to learn real-life skills, discover new strengths, and feel proud of what they accomplish together. Your support helps make experiences like this possible!