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Apples to Zucchini Cooking School Honored with Harkin on Wellness Award from The Harkin Institute at Drake University
Santa Barbara, CA April 8, 2024 – Apples to Zucchini Cooking School is thrilled to announce its receipt of the prestigious Harkin on Wellness Award from The Harkin Institute at Drake University. This esteemed recognition celebrates the cooking school’s commitment to promoting healthy living through culinary education and nutritional awareness.
The Harkin on Wellness Award, bestowed annually by The Harkin Institute, recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to advancing health and wellness initiatives within their communities. Named in honor of retired U.S. Senator Tom Harkin, a resolute advocate for public health and wellness, this award acknowledges the impactful efforts of organizations across various sectors.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Harkin on Wellness Award, recognizing the work we have done to bring cooking classes to local schools and community partners,” said Nancy Martz, Executive Director of Apples to Zucchini Cooking School. “This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering children, teens, adults, and families to make healthier food choices through hands-on cooking experiences and nutritional education.”
The keynote speaker of the awards ceremony was U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, who has brought attention to the loneliness epidemic. “We are addressing loneliness and social isolation by not only teaching people to cook, but gathering students together to share their meals, and make new friends,” explained Nancy Martz, pointing out that culinary education is about more than calories, fats, and ingredients. “The social component of meals is essential.”
Apples to Zucchini Cooking School has been at the forefront of promoting health and wellness through its innovative cooking classes, workshops, and community outreach programs. By teaching participants of all ages how to prepare delicious, nutritious, affordable meals using seasonal and local ingredients, the cooking school aims to inspire lasting lifestyle changes that prioritize health and well-being.
“We commend Apples to Zucchini Cooking School for its outstanding contributions to promoting wellness and healthy eating habits,” said Matt Reed, Director of The Harkin Institute at Drake University. “Their dedication to fostering a culture of health aligns perfectly with the values espoused by Senator Harkin, and we are proud to recognize their impactful work with this esteemed award.”
Apples to Zucchini Cooking School looks forward to continuing its mission of empowering individuals and communities to lead healthier lives through culinary education and nutritional awareness.
For more information about Apples to Zucchini Cooking School and its programs, please visit www.atozcookingschool.org.
Contact:
Nancy Martz
Executive Director
nancy@atozcookingschool.org 805-452-3497
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