Take A Bite Out Of South Florida

Ep. 13 - Culinary Education and Community Engagement: A Glimpse into the Community Classroom Project and Kitchen

Shaina Wizov


Meet Ali Kaufman and Chef Blake Malatesta, the creative minds behind the Community Classroom Project, a 501c3 non-profit initiative started by Space of Mind, and its Community Classroom Kitchen (CCK) initiative. Join us on a journey as they gear up to unveil the CCK commercial teaching kitchen at The Hub at Space of Mind in Downtown Delray Beach. From chef-curated meal boxes to cooking classes, pop-up dinners, and exclusive events, this isn't your run-of-the-mill commercial kitchen! It's a thriving community space where you can learn, create, and step out of your comfort zones, all while indulging in delightful culinary experiences.


As Founding Chef of the Community Classroom Kitchen and a board member for the Community Classroom Project, Chef Blake is all set to inspire the next generation of chefs. He also takes us through his diverse culinary journey and talks about his current stint at The Wine Room Kitchen and Bar in Downtown Delray. 

We chat about the unique and non-traditional educational services provided by Space of Mind from its Founder and CEO, Ali. She talks about its schoolhouse and gap year program, as well as the anticipation surrounding their upcoming family retreats. We also revisit the recent Chefs Collective event, a wonderful display of culinary camaraderie and creativity. 


A big topic of discussion is the upcoming Pub at the Hub, an annual fundraising event for the Community Classroom Project. This year's “Party Gras” themed event will feature top local chefs and New Orleans-inspired cuisine, artists, and musicians from across the region. Expect interactive entertainment, great raffle prizes and a chance to support the Community Classroom Kitchen programming.  The event takes place on January 20th from 7-11pm at The Hub at Space of Mind. For tickets and more information, visit yourccp.org

CCK’s mission is to "bring life skills into the kitchen and kitchen skills into life,” making a huge impact on mental health and well-being for people of all ages. Join in supporting the mission. We hope to see you at Pub at the Hub on January 20th!

Contact Space of Mind:
Website:
yourccp.org
Instagram:
@findspaceofmind


Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email:
takeabiteoutofboca@gmail.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov