MADISONVILLE, Ky. — The Light of Chance nonprofit organization is using culinary arts classes for students to embrace their creativity while learning useful skills.

As part of the "Breathe" program, culinary arts classes started in Feb. of 2021. It's been a useful class for students like Leila Baker, who has been in the program for years. 

Director Eric Logan and a student discussing meals and nutritional value. (Spectrum News 1/Evan Brooks)

"I like it because you can be you and you can have your own taste buds," said Baker. "I actually started in dance but then I heard about it and have been going ever since."

Executive Director Eric Logan started the nonprofit in 2005 as a way for kids to use creative arts as an outlet and form of expression. Culinary arts classes focus on what they call "pantry cooking" but making sure health is a part of it as well. 

"The culinary arts is the latest edition to our program. We call it pantry cooking because its things that they can cooking at home, but put a spin on it to make it healthier," said Logan. "It's a great resource for these young people to know how to cook and understanding things like nutritional value."

The nonprofit has two locations, one in Madisonville and the other in Bowling Green for students in 5th through 12th grade. Students, like Baker, have gotten pretty comfortable now using their cooking skills for others. 

Ramen noodles with a healthy twist including beef, carrots and eggs made by one of the students. (Spectrum News 1/Evan Brooks)

“Now I've been like, 'I think this person would like that, so let me make it for them,'" said Baker "It has boosted me to do more.”

Cooking classes are never the same. Baker said her favorite one thus far is making stir fry. 

"I would say my favorite class has been the stir fry," said Baker. "I just like that you can do whatever fits you."

If you want to learn more about the culinary arts classes or the program in general, you can visit here.