Life’s Kitchen in Boise will benefit from the grant

A 21-year-old Boise nonprofit is making plans to reach more community members thanks to a grant from a major bank.

Life’s Kitchen in Boise is the first nonprofit in the city to receive the Bank of America Neighborhood Champions grant of $50,000 over the next two years. The nonprofit organization provides young adults with career paths through educational resources and opportunities.

In addition to the cash award, Life’s Kitchen will receive leadership training for its executive director, access to technical coaching and a network of colleagues in the nonprofit sector.

“With this generous support, we can expand our reach and impact and give more young people in our community the tools they need for long-term success,” said Tammy Johnson, executive director of Life’s Kitchen. “This funding allows us to deepen our training programs, offer GED education and provide workforce development opportunities that open doors for our students that would be difficult for them to reach on their own.”

Life’s Kitchen was founded in 2003 with the mission of helping young people become self-sufficient through food service and life skills training. The program also offers job placement and training opportunities. “This is accomplished through an extensive 16-week program in which students receive hands-on training in catering, lunch box and contract food service businesses operated by Life’s Kitchen,” a news release said.

The nonprofit’s life skills courses are taught by its staff and volunteers, and the funding will help it expand its offerings and capabilities to reach those it serves in the community.

“As we continue to expand our presence in Boise, we support nonprofit organizations that provide solutions to local challenges and promote economic progress through Neighborhood Champions,” said Lauren Murray, president of Bank of America Spokane and Boise. “When these influential nonprofits are provided flexible funding and often-neglected leadership training, they can address critical needs and create meaningful, lasting change in our communities. Many youth have been profoundly impacted by Life’s Kitchen’s work and strengthening their leadership skills will ensure they can continue to make a difference in the year ahead.”

Neighborhood Champions is an invitation-only program that Bank of America says is “very competitive.” Each year, 40 nonprofit organizations are selected in the bank’s various regions across the country, and as of 2019, it has awarded more than $9 million to more than 200 organizations.

“We are honored to be named the first Boise Local Neighborhood Champion and look forward to the growth and innovation this partnership will bring to our organization,” Johnson said.