Growing Demand
Over the years, The Test Kitchen Education Foundation experienced phenomenal growth, and the Elliott Test Kitchen and the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge gained popularity statewide. Many communities across Iowa began to take notice of the foundation’s work. The inquiries and demands for similar programs came pouring in.
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In 2023, The Test Kitchen Education Foundation entrusted the local YMCA with the oversight and operations of Elliott Test Kitchen and the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge. By bringing academic and nutritious programming to Fort Madison Family YMCA, they have become a cut above the rest. This also enables Test Kitchen Education Foundation to expand this unique concept to a larger audience.
The Foundation realized that many students did not have access to a piano or funds to pay for lessons. The Test Kitchen STEM Lounge responded to this need by providing a new grand piano and implementing an innovative music program that included fun music theory games, culinary activities, and dedicated practice times for each student.
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When our youth started developing their musical skills, the Foundation wanted to provide an opportunity to showcase their talent. Thus, Friday Night Live Jam was created. On Friday nights, students gather at the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge to perform with community music enthusiasts while enjoying great food prepared by our youth chefs.
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You can check out the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge Music Program on our YouTube Channel below or come visit us on a Friday night!
https://www.youtube.com/@testkitchenstemlounge4279
Where We Are Now
Over the years, The Test Kitchen Education Foundation experienced phenomenal growth. The Elliott Test Kitchen and the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge have gained popularity statewide. Many communities across Iowa have started to take notice of the Test Kitchen Education Foundation's work. Inquiries and demands for similar programming from other organizations have since come pouring in.
​
In 2023, The Test Kitchen Education Foundation entrusted the local YMCA with the oversight and operations of the Elliott Test Kitchen and the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge. By bringing academic and nutritious programming to the Fort Madison Family YMCA, they have become a cut above the rest. This also enables Test Kitchen Education Foundation to expand this unique concept to a larger audience.
Big Picture
Today, the Test Kitchen Education Foundation is committed to providing consulting services and assistance to other organizations to create the unique Test Kitchen experience in their communities to make a better future for youth.
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We are looking for new partnerships and forward-thinking people to spread Test Kitchens across the state and nation. If you are interested in starting a Test Kitchen in your area, reach out to us and we will be happy to share with you our "secret sauce" to inspire a passion for lifelong learning and an appreciation for healthy cooking and eating!
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