Written by Cathy Gaillard
Alisa Crowley encountered another interesting opportunity to make a difference, connect with young people, and learn about other cultures while working as a speech therapist at the University of Milwaukee Preparatory School. She is currently working with her children to hone her culinary skills and pass on her family's recipes. This effort led to intergenerational socialization and a deeper understanding of diversity and cultural communities.
Kids in the Kitchen, a grassroots initiative born out of a desire to help children and families socially participate during the COVID-19 pandemic, has turned out better than Alisa ever imagined. has exploded into something big and amazing.
“During the pandemic, I wanted to find ways for our youth, families, church, and school communities to stay socially connected and engaged, so I started hosting virtual meetings with families. It was also a way for us to connect and at the same time pass on family recipes, which several participants told a few more friends about. We have about 25 kids participating in Kids in the Kitchen,” Alisa said.
Since Alisa's profession involves communication, it's no surprise that Alisa launches viable means to stay connected with people and keep them interested. Alisa's father, Dr. Audie H. Tolbert, suffered from hearing loss. Alisa started learning sign language at an early age because her mother, Maganolia, enrolled in school and taught sign language at church. Her father's hearing loss was also the reason she studied to become a speech therapist.
“My father had to read everything out loud. Before joining the military, he had received a choir scholarship to Morehouse College. After leaving the military, he suffered hearing loss from cannon fire, and as a singer… Thankfully, my sister has inherited his 'singing gene' and is a gospel artist,” Alisa said.
In addition to her interest in communication, Alisa also considers herself to be a connector. Kids in the Kitchen brought holiday cheer to community elders at the Cookie & Cocoa Caravan held at Milwaukee College Preps' (MCP) Lloyd Street Campus. Approximately 30 MCP scholars wrapped the cookies and delivered them to more than 50 local seniors while Kids in the Kitchen members built community connections. Some Kids in the Kitchen members set up booths at various vendor fairs and community events.
“Kids in the Kitchen started out on its own. In fact, we hosted friendly matches that were so popular that two media outlets asked us to partner with them.
“In addition to making food, participants also learn about different cultures. For example, we have a young gentleman from India teach us how to make curry potatoes, and another person teach us how to make Puerto Rican rice. Children can watch the cooking and ask questions. Some young people have started their own businesses and some are making cooking videos on TikTok. ''Alyssa said.
In April, Kids in the Kitchen held its first in-person session at University of Milwaukee Prep. This is not operated as an afterschool program/club by University of Milwaukee Prep students.
Alissa said young people, teachers and other businesses in the community want to join the effort, and they are exploring ways to offer the program across the country. It has become a connector that brings seniors, parents and grandmas to the table and passes down recipes so that the family legacy continues.
“My parents were definitely pillars both inside and outside of the home. Our home was always a home full of hospitality. Although they are both gone now, I will carry on their legacy and keep it alive. I feel like that's what's called for. I've gotten better because they've crossed my path and poured it on me,” Alisa said.
As if working as a speech therapist and coordinating Kids in the Kitchen wasn't enough, Alisa also helps out with her husband, Dr. Vernon Crowley, senior pastor at Bethel Temple Church.
“I try to take care of myself in order to take care of others. Health and wealth go hand in hand. As 3 John 1:2 says, God cares for me. He wants us to be healthy.My beloved, I wish above all that you may prosper and be in good health, so that your soul may prosper.”.
I have beliefs that I share and encourage all children to have a mission statement. Mine is “Making someone else's life better will make your life better too.”
