Cooking Up Success: Club Alumnus Teaches Food Safety and Culinary Skills to the Next Generation

The kitchen at our H. Fletcher Brown Club has been buzzing with activity, thanks to the dedication of Club alumnus Emmanuel E. Walker and a group of enthusiastic members. Each week, Walker leads a food safety course designed to equip youth with essential kitchen skills, teaching them everything from proper food handling to cooking techniques that ensure meals are both delicious and safe.

Through this program, members learn about food safety guidelines, including critical temperature zones, proper storage, and the safe preparation of meats. Handwashing and avoiding cross-contamination are key lessons, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a clean and sanitary cooking environment.

“I want them to have knowledge. When I started, they only did grilled cheese and ramen,” says Chef Walker. “It’s about me sewing into them a better life. This gift was given to me, and I want to give it to them.”

Walker, a proud alumnus of the H. Fletcher Brown Boys & Girls Club, was inspired to give back after attending the Club’s 75th-anniversary celebration last year. His experience as a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) makes him well-equipped to mentor the next generation of young chefs.

“When I was younger, we were here five days a week, and sometimes Saturday,” he recalls. “I wanted to give back.”

The program is hands-on, allowing members to create a variety of meals and serve them to staff once completed. From classic burgers and fries to baked ziti, they take an active role in preparing their dishes. In addition to learning about cooking temperatures and food safety, they explore the fundamental five "mother sauces" of cooking—Béchamel, Velouté, Espagnole, Tomato, and Hollandaise—building a strong foundation in culinary arts.

“I like that we get to eat some good food. And we’ve learned about the temperature danger zone!” shares Kristin M.

We are incredibly grateful for dedicated volunteers like Emmanuel, whose passion and commitment to mentoring young people make a lasting impact. His dedication to sharing his skills is helping to shape the future of our Club members, ensuring they are prepared for Great Futures Ahead.