This week, we’re aiming to raise $5,000 in just 5 days to give students the tools, support, and opportunities they deserve as we kick off the 2025-2026 school year Tuesday, August, 26th.
Today, we’re highlighting the fourth of our Five Basics:
A Marketable Skill to Use Upon Graduation
We believe every student deserves to graduate with more than just a diploma—they deserve the confidence and skills to pursue meaningful careers and bright futures. That’s why we are committed to equipping students with marketable skills they can carry into the workforce or higher education. Whether through hands-on programs like Cooking Matters for Teens, working the Siler City Community Garden, career exploration opportunities, or connections with local professionals, we help students discover their strengths, build practical experience, and envision a future filled with possibility.
One of our most popular programs over the past few years is our Cooking Matters for Teens (CMFT). Launched in 2017, this hands-on program teaches students culinary skills, nutrition, and introduces them to careers in the food industry. Thanks to dedicated volunteers like Erika Guy—who brings years of experience in education and a passion for culinary arts—students are gaining real-world knowledge that sparks curiosity and opens doors to future opportunities.
After overcoming challenges like finding classroom space and adapting during COVID-19, CMFT returned in 2024 with renewed energy. Today, the program equips students with the skills to envision themselves as chefs, bakers, food scientists, and more.
One of our teens shared this about her time in the Cooking Matters program this spring:
“I LOVE this class. I would like to thank all of you chaperone chefs. The class will stay a memory for life for me. You guys and girls helped me a lot in my passion for cooking. I will forever remember this class and all of you wonderful chefs. You have given me skills that I can show off to my family. I love y’all and hope to share what I have learned with the world one day. Thank you for making me a CHEF!
Sincerely, Chef E.
p.s. Love y’all to the moon and back”
By blending education with practical skills, CISCC is ensuring students leave school with confidence, experience, and a foundation for success. This is the power of Basic #4: A Marketable Skill to Use Upon Graduation.
This week, we are seeking to raise $5,000 in 5 days to support our work in local schools.
Here’s what your gift can do:
$50 – Supplies & materials for our Student Support Specialists
$100 – School supplies for a student for the year
$250 – Out-of-school enrichment opportunities
$500 – Sponsor a student for camp
$1,000 – Snacks & supplies for after-school programs at a school
Will you join us today?
