“We are taking a holistic approach. We want them to learn economic skills as well as other real-life skills. We have a lot of activity in the kitchen. They love to cook! Vanessa Richardson, our assistant director, handles a lot of things but is very involved in the kitchen making dinners and being creative in what they make together.” “Within those four walls of the kitchen,” adds Myhre, “the relationship building, if you can call it culinary arts, is one of the central parts of the ministry. And it makes sense, it is all centered around food!” Donations of potatoes have turned into making homemade French fries. A Student Resource Officer came and made gator tail, and cookie decorating is a favorite. “They love to eat, and they love to be a part of it!” Other activities are games, coloring, crafts, ping pong, X-Box games, air hockey, pool table, and 9 square, and a beautiful basketball court.
Vanessa Richardson
94
Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com