Everyone Belongs At The Table.
Everyone Belongs At The Table.
Cohort 3 Graduation
August 2026
The gallery below captures a milestone worth celebrating. These photos reflect the hard work, growth, and determination that led to graduation day—along with the joy and pride shared by students, families, and our community. We’re honored to celebrate this accomplishment and all that comes next.
Parent Testimonial - Cohort 3
“Thank you for providing an excellent program for individuals who otherwise might not have an opportunity to participate in this kind of skill building setting. We appreciate the hard work involved and are especially grateful for the hearts that sustain an endeavor of this nature.
In the past 4 months Michael has grown in so many ways beyond using a knife and following a recipe. The culinary experience has been much more and has been instrumental in developing additional confidence, self esteem, and life enriching skills.
Thank you for facilitating a space where students look forward to coming, feel seen and respected. We know Michael will miss his daily interaction with all of you but will carry your encouragement, kindness, and positivity as he goes along his way.” - Sue H., Michael’s Mom
Chef Emily and Chef Su with Michael at Cohort 3’s graduation ceremony.
Michael introduces his selected graduation dish..the meatloaf Knight Bus!
Nourish & Flourish Kitchen
Nourish & Flourish Kitchen prepares people experiencing intellectual or developmental disabilities for work in the food industry. Designed to build confidence and independence, the curriculum-based program ensures student success through hands-on training alongside professional chefs.
- 16-week program, 3 cohorts per year
- Cohorts limited to six students
- Located in downtown Portland
- No cost to students who qualify
More details here.
For application information please contact Cedar Independence using the contact form below.
Nourish & Flourish Kitchen is a program of Germaine's Culinary Inc. and Cedar Independence.
Nourish and Flourish Kitchen empowers people experiencing Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to achieve self-reliance through careers in the food service industry. Through the hot meals program, Nourish & Flourish helps relieve hunger for those in need.
This video captures our first full-time cohort in action—cooking, engaging in the community, learning in the classroom, and sharing insights through interviews with our chefs.