Thanks to Community Food Education (CFE) volunteer James Strosnider for his continued dedication and passion for nutrition education and food security!

James is a first-time volunteer with the Cooking Matters program at Solid Ground. He signed up and completed his orientation last fall and has eagerly been waiting for a class that works for him and his schedule ever since. James found his perfect fit this winter facilitating nutrition at Immanuel Community Services.

James poses with bell peppers (photo by Taylor Pellizzari).

As a Nutrition Facilitator for Cooking Matters, James discusses a variety of nutrition topics including MyPlate, whole grains, healthy fats, and healthy snacking while also incorporating life skills into the each class such as unit pricing, budgeting, and storing food safely. Outside of volunteering with Solid Ground, James enjoys skiing and travelling. Currently, he is a medical assistant and will be attending med school in the fall.

James comes prepared for each class and adds in his own passion for nutrition and educating others. He brings warmth and enthusiasm to class. He connects well with the participants and tries to get to know all the participants in the class at an individual level. He goes above and beyond the curriculum and brings in his own life experiences and storytelling in order to convey the material in an engaging, knowledgeable, and relatable way. He is always happy to do more than what is asked of him and provides support in other roles in order for class to run smoothly – all with a smile on his face.

We appreciate all of James’ hard work and his constant dedication to class. His thoughtfulness and consideration for all evokes a positive and trusting atmosphere, helping engage the participants at a personal level while his personal touch during facilitation makes class fun. Thanks for all you do James!

Questions about volunteering with Community Food Education? Contact Shana McCann at 206.694.6869 or shanam@solid-ground.org.

Image at top: CFE Volunteer James Strosnider in the kitchen (center photo by Taylor Pellizzari)