A new initiative, Our Giving Kitchen Kansas City, has been founded to merge community service with team building by engaging groups in meal preparation for those in need.
Our Giving Kitchen was founded on the experience and success of the long-standing KC Kosher Meals on Wheels program, led by Torah Learning Center.
Launched in 2013, KC Kosher Meals on Wheels works to combat hunger amongst Jewish seniors and adults living with disabilities in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Our Giving Kitchen will have a broader focus on combating hunger throughout Kansas City, serving all denominations, demographics and age groups.
The organization works to address food insecurity and declining interpersonal connections by bringing people to prepare meals under the guidance of experienced chefs, package them for distribution and contribute directly to local organizations serving community members in need. Opportunities are not limited to adults – school and youth groups are also encouraged to book a team building event.
Our Giving Kitchen features a dedicated kitchen space for routine use and a team building program with an elevated cooking experience. This setup enables large volume and consistent meal production for partnering charities.
“Our Giving Kitchen is about more than just cooking — it’s about community, connection and compassion,” Program Director Levi Perl said. “By working together to prepare meals, participants not only help fight hunger but also strengthen bonds with colleagues and friends. Our program’s value extends beyond feeding our community members in need. It provides an immeasurable altruistic feeling for participants.”
According to Harvesters — The Community Food Network, 12.3% of individuals and 17% of children in Kansas are at risk of hunger. According to the United Way of Greater Kansas City’s 2023 Community Needs Index, 182,950 people in the Kansas City metropolitan area are food insecure. Based on data from Meals on Wheels America, 8% of Kansas seniors face hunger, and 27% live alone. Rising grocery prices and economic challenges further exacerbate food scarcity.
This information, paired with data showing that workplace collaboration and interpersonal connections have declined; evidence that team building activities benefit employees through increased interdependence and job satisfaction, improved working relationships, conflict resolution and effective communication; and research suggesting cooking can enhance wellbeing all inform Our Giving Kitchen’s goal and mission.
To offset costs, Our Giving Kitchen requests a contribution for participation, which is customizable based on each group’s individual needs. Additional event options include (but are not limited to) a provided buffet lunch where participants can sample the food they’ve created, a group happy hour, and/or meeting spaces.
Businesses, organizations and community groups looking for a way to give back while enhancing teamwork are invited to participate in Our Giving Kitchen’s cooking sessions. Those interested in learning more, donating or scheduling a group experience can visit ogkkc.org or contact .
