Wooden utensils laying on open cookbook Wooden utensils laying on open cookbook

Learn • Cook • Thrive

The Downtown YMCA Community Kitchen is a welcoming space where people come together to learn, create, and connect through food. Designed to support cooking classes, nutrition education, and community gatherings, the kitchen provides a hands-on environment where individuals and families can build healthy habits and share meaningful experiences. From youth programs to community workshops, the Community Kitchen helps bring people together while promoting wellness, learning, and a stronger community.

Kids chocolate Extravaganza

Get ready for our Kids Chocolate Extravaganza where they can roll, dip,     and decorate their very own Chocolate Truffles and Chocolate-Covered Strawberries. 

Tapas: Passport to Flavor

Simple, healthy Mediterranean-inspired favorites including Stuffed Grape Leaves, Spice-Rubbed Pita Crisps, Hummus with Za'atar, and Ricotta Crostini with Fig Jam and Honey Drizzle

Kids Sprinkle Cupcakes

Kids will mix, bake, decorate, and create their own colorful creations! Plus, build confidence in the kitchen while learning basic skills such as kitchen safety, following directions, measuring, and working as a team. 

Garlic Shrimp Fettuccini Alfredo

Elegant, satisfying, and made from scratch! Find out how easy it is to create a rich, creamy garlic alfredo sauce and tender shrimp tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccini pasta at home!

Lemon Angel Food Cake with Blueberry Compote

It’s a little bit of sunshine in every bite! Light & airy angel food cake and a not-too-sweet fruit topping that makes this dessert a summer must-have. 

Lemon Chicken Piccata with Artichoke Hearts

Crispy, golden chicken piccata pan-seared to perfection and topped with a bright, buttery lemon sauce featuring white wine, capers, and tender artichoke hearts finished with fresh parsley and lemon!

Napa Cabbage Dumplings with Shrimp

Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, these delicious dumplings are a healthy, yet satisfying meal with lean shrimp, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings!

Kids One Bowl Brownies

From cracking eggs to folding and sifting, kids will practice essential kitchen skills they'll use for years to come as we whip up rich, fudgy brownies! 

Our Instructors

Michelle Graham

Senior Director, Health & Wellness

Keziah Landadio

Supervisor, Downtown Y Fitness Center

Tasia Hamilton

Supervisor, Member Services & STEAM

Chana Fay

Baking & Pastry Instructor, Jefferson Community College