Connecting Communities program learns about scratch cooking at Twig and Vine

Connecting Communities program learns about scratch cooking at Twig and Vine

Members of Community Connections were invited into the kitchen at Twig and Vine to learn about cooking from scratch along with how to properly set tables, cook a meal safely, serve a meal, and clean up from a meal.

Community Connections is a local group that has been available for a little over a year. The mission is to connect purpose and independence throughout Warren County's disabled community.

Tailored monthly events take place as well as individualized ones. Many of the outings reinforce certain life skills that members would like to learn. In addition, it makes way for different partnerships in the community. An important aspect is that new places and activities and the potential for new experiences are made available, sparking interests in future endeavors for participants.

Recently, Community Connections partnered with Twig and Vine, where owner Wendy McCain opened the doors, and made a meal that the participants selected as something they could then cook at home as well. Participants gathered in this new environment where they first learned how to set tables. Next was learning how to make a homemade meal from scratch including kitchen safety. The meals were served to friends and family and enjoyed together with great conversation before learning about clean up.

"It was a really great experience and my participants had a really great time not only meeting new people, trying new things exploring new spaces, but also building confidence within themselves to continue to learn new and more challenging life skills," said Amy Castagnino-Sandberg, occupational therapist. Being able to assess each activity helped her to meet individuals where they are in order to determine specific needs.

The program is for young adults and adults with any form of physical or cognitive disability that wants to enhance areas of their daily life whether it be socially, exploring employment opportunities, learning life skills, determining life goals, and learning increased independence.

Castagnino-Sandberg holds a doctorate in OT and directs the workshop accompanied by team members with similar goals and passions to provide meaningful, client-centered community-based services.

"It was also really nice for the parents and family as it was nice to see their loved ones be able to express themselves through learning these new skills and build their confidence in a useful manner."

Community Connections meets the last Monday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Don Mills Achievement Center, 677 Hospital Drive STE J, Warren. For more information follow the Community Connections Facebook page or call/text 814-706-9637.